Diversity and International Affairs

Our Office of Diversity and International Affairs (DIA) addresses the university’s diversity and inclusive efforts; and, its work is multi-purposed. It is a global center committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive campus environment which affirms, educates and advocates for everyone. Likewise, our office serves both domestic and international students, scholars and faculty with academic instruction, financial assistance, career development and cross-cultural relations, while supporting the university’s retention efforts.

Currently, our office hosts international students from over 35 countries and operates primarily as a “Center of Expertise,” managing the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). In addition, DIA is the university’s point of contact for several governmental agencies in relation to visa and immigration compliance. The office provides "world-class" advisement to: 1) F-1 students, 2) J-1 students and scholars, faculty and 3) National Student Exchange (NSE) students. The office has administrative responsibilities for all documentation related to F-1 Students and J-1 International Scholars. The Director of DIA also processes immigration paperwork affiliated with F-1 students’ request for work authorization—the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Occupational Practical Training (OPT), which can require administrative management for up to three years, post-graduation.

Another focus of our office is to provide opportunities for its students to study away or abroad, both nationally and internationally, as well as enact and manage any stipulations dictated by an International Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Our office oversees the National Student Exchange (NSE) Program. This program allows students the opportunity to study for a year, at another university, in the fifty states and related territories.

We offer cross-cultural programming and information to enhance the global mission of Alabama State University. Students, scholars, faculty and staff continue to be involved in a variety of ways, by providing inclusive programming and intercultural dialogues with affiliated student organizations and the broader community. Several types of programs that are sponsored, with the help of the International Student Association (ISA), include: New International Student Orientation, Welcome Week International Meet and Greet, The Miss Diversity International Pageant, Black History Month Installation, Women’s History Month Celebration, United Nations Day Celebration, Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, Chinese New Year Celebration and Nigerian Independence Day Celebration.

Within the last five years, our office has also added to its administrative portfolio, by assuming the university’s work on meeting the educational, cultural and social needs of LGBTQ students. In partnership with the student organization, Amplified, we have sought to create “safe spaces,” campus-wide for our students who identify as LGBTQ. Likewise, Amplified educates the campus community on the complex dualities and pluralities of being a person of color and LGBTQ. Allies of the community are welcomed to join and assist with activities and events.