One year after opening its doors, the Cultural Connection Center embarks on new ways to reach students in a more relational way.

CeCe Gaines| News Reporter

Many changes will occur in the CCC this year, and one of those changes started with management. Former program specialist for the CCC Pang Moua, is on leave to do her practicum so Northwestern graduate Mona Lee is filling in. Lee graduated in 2010 with an intercultural studies degree. Now she has come to Bethel not only to work, but to get her master of divinity and master in marriage and family counseling at the seminary.

The CCC hired four new student workers this year. The program is also introducing subs, or substitute workers. If students are interested in working in the CCC, but can’t commit to an ongoing position, they can fill in for main workers.

“This will give students the opportunity to see what the CCC is like and also learn while they work,” Lee said.

With inclusion being the largest goal this year for the CCC, director of Moya in United Cultures of Bethel Taz Song’Ony said, “(The CCC) is a space for everyone, not just people of color on campus.”

Coming back to Bethel, Lee and the rest of management had new ideas on how to reach students, so they will begin by implementing themed program series for all upcoming CCC events.

From Sept. 8 to the beginning of December, the theme will be identity and neighborhood. This theme is to teach students how to be honest and authentic while loving their neighbor. 

“We want to be more relational and relatable with our events this year,” Lee said.

Last Tuesday, the CCC hosted a table at the Opportunity Fair providing food, stress balls and handouts for students to learn more about the Intercultural department. The CCC’s new hours are 11-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11-3 p.m. Friday, and 6-10 p.m. Sunday.