Springfield, Ohio - Two new student-run organizations are enriching the diverse residential experience that defines Wittenberg University. Minority Men Striving to Succeed (M2S2) and Shades of Pearl were created during the 2015-16 school year to support, encourage and empower minority students on campus.

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In partnership with the Office of Multicultural Affairs, M2S2 and Shades of Pearl, both of which were recognized at the annual Student Leadership Awards banquet in April 2016, were founded to foster a diverse community on campus, provide space for minority students to meet and grow together, and enrich the overall student experience.

Shades of Pearl, led in 2016-17 by Kamyia Fletcher, class of 2017 from Cincinnati, Ohio, provides minority women on campus with a sense of community and support. With an emphasis on academics, the organization strives to provide opportunities in leadership, community service and social activities while empowering members to make a difference on Wittenberg's campus.

Similarly, M2S2 provides opportunities to minority men. The program focuses on the construction of masculinity and manhood among minority men by fostering discussion about media, established norms, perceptions and goals. The organization's leader in the 2016-17 school year is Kaiden Evans, class of 2017 from Wauwatosa, Wis.

"M2S2 and Shades of Pearl provide opportunities for students to grow and develop personally, academically, through leadership development, and create supportive communities for students," said Associate Dean of Student Success Jon Duraj. "Members of these organizations not only grow in their connectedness to Wittenberg but also go on to serve in leadership roles across campus and positively shape our community. These groups provide tremendous opportunities for students to join supportive communities that will aid in their success and growth as individuals, men, women, and students."

M2S2 and Shades of Pearl are only two examples of the endless student activities Wittenberg has to offer. For more information, visit www.wittenberg.edu/getinvolved. Current students can learn more about everything the campus has to offer at the annual Student Involvement Fair from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, on Alumni Way.