Multicultural Affairs

Our Mission

The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is committed to creating a vibrant and supportive environment where students feel welcomed, valued, and integral to the Smith community. With a focus on student development that emphasizes students' voices, ambitions, and aspirations, OMA’s mission is to cultivate an inclusive environment where programming, resources, advising, and support empower students to navigate challenges and thrive at Smith, reaching their full potential. 

Davis Center drawing

OMA History

Established in 1983 as the Office of Minority Affairs and later renamed the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), the office plays an essential role in supporting Smith College students from diverse backgrounds. Rooted in collaboration and care, OMA offers advising, advocacy, programs, and resources that help students thrive academically, personally, and within the broader campus community.

Over the years, OMA has grown and evolved through the leadership of dedicated Deans who have shaped its mission and impact. Under the Dean's leadership, OMA continues its efforts to expand its staff, programs, spaces, and student outreach to increase access and foster a vibrant, inclusive campus environment where students feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.

About the Staff

L’Tanya Richmond, M.A.

Dean of Multicultural Affairs and Director of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship

she/her/hers

The Dean of Multicultural Affairs and Director of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship (MMUF) provides strategic leadership, vision, guidance, and operational management for the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. Working collaboratively with academic and administrative partners, the dean directs initiatives that enhance both the curricular and co-curricular experiences of students served by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and participants in the MMUF. Through the design, implementation, and assessment of programs and services, the dean ensures students have access to resources and opportunities that support persistence, success, and achievement. The dean has direct responsibility for the effective operation of all multicultural student-directed services and facilities, including managing an endowed emergency fund, organizing a lecture series, and directing the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship and the Summer Research Training Program (SRTP).

Contact Dean Richmond
Email: lrichmon@smith.edu 
Phone: 413-585-4945

Open Office Hours
Fridays 2–4 p.m. walk-in only, no appointment necessary. 
For other times, please send an email to lrichmon@smith.edu. 

Cai Sherley, M.F.A.

Assistant Director of Multicultural Affairs

he/him/his

The Assistant Director of Multicultural Affairs plays a crucial role in fostering the collaboration and coordination of student leadership within the Office of Multicultural Affairs. The Assistant Director is dedicated to creating spaces and programming that recognize and support student cultural organizations, while also serving as an advisor and resource for students through their work with student coordinators, the Unity Presidents’ Council (UPC), Unity Organizations, and the Bridge Pre-Orientation Program. They also oversee the development and implementation of various OMA programs and initiatives, ensuring they align with the OMA's mission and goals.

Contact Cai Sherley
Email: csherley@smith.edu 
Phone: 413-585-4946

Open Office Hours
Tuesdays 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. walk-in only, no appointment necessary.
For other times, please send an email to csherley@smith.edu.

Rebecca Weber

Administrative Assistant

she/her/hers

The administrative assistant provides administrative, budgetary, and project support to all aspects of the Office of Multicultural Affairs operation and the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship program.

Contact Rebecca Weber
Email: rweber@smith.edu 
Phone: 413-585-4948

Contact Office of Multicultural Affairs

Hours
Monday-Friday 
9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

 

Phone: Phone: 413-585-4948 Email: oma@smith.edu

Mwangi Cultural Center
Spring hours
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m.- midnight
Friday 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Closed Saturday
Sunday 1-8p.m.

Phone: 413-585-4947
Email: mwangicc@smith.edu