Likins talks with minority freshmen

Leigh-Anne Brown Arizona Daily Wildcat President Peter Likins discusses events at the first Rainbow Welcome Convocation with vice president of campus life and organizer of the event, Saundra Taylor. Likins outlined how minority students can impact the campus community.

University of Arizona President Peter Likins and two other top administrators appeared at the event, billed by organizers as the Rainbow Welcome Convocation. About 600 minority freshmen were invited to attend the festivities in the Memorial Student Union Arizona Ballroom.

But Likins said he noted many empty chairs in the room, since only about 50 people attended.

"I need to begin by thanking you for showing up like this," Likins said to the group. "My mission requires your help."

The president has pieced together a task force, led by Saundra Taylor, vice president for campus life, to end a growing concern that the university campus is fragmented.

He almost pleaded for the freshmen to assist him in building a better university.

"There's something new happening, and I want to make sure you're aware of it - we need you," Likins said. "Do not underestimate your power."

Taylor, whose new job is to oversee campus life issues, praised the cultural centers.

"The cultural centers are a wonderful bridge for minority students," she said. "A home away from home."

The convocation also unveiled a new department, formed weeks ago, called the Department of Multicultural Programs and Services.

Olga Carranza, associate director of education, outreach and programming for the new department, said she hoped the event would help raise awareness about different services minority students can receive.

"We want them to get involved with the university community," Carranza said. "We're excited that they're here."

Cheerleaders and the UA mascot, Wilma Wildcat, taught students the university's "Bear Down" theme song, and a steel-drum band also played tunes to entertain the group.

Medical technology freshman Evelyn Benitez said she appreciated the number of fliers and speakers available to help students.

Jorge Duarte, a biology freshman, said events like yesterday's encourage school involvement.

"It brings everyone together," he said.

But Likins acknowledged that building community doesn't happen overnight.

"When people are not accustomed to being a community, it takes time to get used to it," he said before his speech.

Freshmen listened closely as Likins aimed to inspire, chronicling the possibilities that await the new students.

"You're not in the role of a supplicant ... you're in the role of being able to control this institution," he said. "And someday, someday, we will be all that we dream of being."

David J. Cieslak can be reached via e-mail at David.J.Cieslak@wildcat.arizona.edu.