The African Diaspora Initiative (ADI) is a Multicultural Student Services (MSS) program that serves as an African-centered “home away from home” and oasis for students of diverse African and Black identities. Our programming focuses on observing cultural celebrations, developing key leadership skills, and fostering community among students who belong to the African diaspora.

Our Values

The African Diaspora Initiative contributes significantly to the “come as you are” approach of UVU. Our work is consciously centered in the best of African history, culture, and tradition, which express the values of dedication, vision, hard work, collectivism, and positive affirmation. UVU’s mascot, the wolverine, is a symbol of endurance, resilience, and perseverance.

We strive to find African symbols, concepts, and language that represent these core values.

Aya

Aya (eye-yah) is a word meaning “fern” that is derived from the Twi language. Aya is part of Adinkra, a collection of visual symbols linked to the Bono people of the Gyaman kingdom (Côte d’Ivoire) and Ashanti culture (Ghana). Aya is a symbol of resourcefulness and endurance.

Uvumilivu

Uvumilivu (oh-vu-me-lee-vu) is Swahili term for patience, endurance, and tolerance.

Get Involved

A group of ten black UVU students posing together on campus
We partner with several student clubs on campus to create a space for networking and celebrating Black and African identities.
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Programs & Events

Two black UVU students clasping hands
The African Diaspora Initiative hosts regular events for Black students, ranging from weekly and monthly networking events to annual celebrations.
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Partnerships

Expect the Great

A black UVU student posing with the flag of the Democratic Republic of Congo
ETG is an Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) free college and career awareness and readiness event for African, African American, Black students and communities in Utah.
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Black Student Union

Two black UVU students embracing
The African Diaspora Initiative hosts regular events for Black students, ranging from weekly and monthly networking events to annual celebrations.
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Cultural Envoy Student Leadership

A black UVU student striking a fun happy pose.
Cultural Envoy is a UVU sponsored leadership program that validates students’ cultures and supports their pathway to completion.
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African Diaspora Initiative

LA

Liberal Arts Building

800 West University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84058