Get Involved

Explore opportunities to connect and lead

From joining a student organization or attending cultural events to taking on leadership and mentorship opportunities, CILA offers meaningful ways to explore identity, build connections and find your community at WSU Vancouver. Whether you want to join an established group or start something new, there’s a place for you here.

Explore the ways you can get involved, develop leadership skills and connect with other Cougs through student organizations, programs and events.

Join a student organization

Discover new passions, skills and friendships by joining a student organization. CILA partners with student-led clubs and associations that build community, empower their members and celebrate identities.

Connect with student clubs

Tips for contacting a student organization:

  • Launch WSU Involve.
  • Choose the Organizations tab.
  • Pick a category.
  • Select an organization to view meeting times, events, and contact details.

Thinking about starting a new diversity-based organization? CILA can guide you through the process, starting with registration and finding an advisor.

Questions?

Email: van.cila@wsu.edu
Phone: 360-546-9182
Location: CILA is located in the Firstenburg Student Commons, Room 102 and 104.

CILA Schedule

  • Monday9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Tuesday9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Wednesday9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Thursday9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Friday9:00am – 5:00pm
A performer operating a colorful red and white traditional dragon costume during a campus parade celebration

Signature Events and Programs

CILA hosts workshops, celebrations and speaker series that give you an opportunity to connect with others, learn from real experiences and celebrate identity in all its forms. These events are for everyone. Come join us!

See upcoming events on the Calendar

Heritage Series

These celebrations highlight the cultures, histories, and identities represented on campus. Events often include speakers, performances, art, music and food. Student voices are at the heart of every event.

Heritage months celebrated each year include:

CelebrationMonthFocus of Recognition
Muslim American Heritage MonthJanuaryCelebrates the heritage, history, and contributions of Muslim Americans.
Black History MonthFebruaryHonors the cultures, histories, and achievements of the Black community.
Women’s History MonthMarchCelebrates the vital contributions of women to history and modern society.
National Developmental Disabilities Awareness MonthMarchPromotes inclusion and highlights the contributions of people with developmental disabilities.
Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage MonthAprilRecognizes the diverse backgrounds and impact of APIDA individuals.
National Arab American Heritage MonthAprilHighlights the rich heritage and achievements of Arab Americans.
National Hispanic Heritage MonthSeptember–OctoberCelebrates the histories and cultures of those with roots in Hispanic and Latin American countries.
DiwaliOctober-NovemberCelebrates the traditions, cultural heritage, and significance of Diwali.
National Native American Heritage MonthNovemberHonors the unique traditions and significant contributions of Indigenous peoples.

Dish-It-Up Speaker Series

A space to hear real stories, ask questions and take part in conversations about identity, leadership and creating change. Guest speakers include students, faculty and community members who share their experiences over lunch.

Annual Graduation Celebration

Each spring, CILA hosts a celebration to recognize graduating students who have been involved in CILA programs. It is a time to reflect, celebrate and enjoy community.

Workshops and leadership development

Led by students for students, these workshops focus on topics such as self-care, personal growth and speaking up for what matters to you. Whether you are leading a session or joining one, you will leave with something meaningful.

Clark County Latino Youth Conference

Held every October, this one-day event brings middle and high school students to campus for hands-on workshops and sessions with local leaders. The goal is to inspire students to see college as part of their future.

Leadership and Mentorship

Make an impact by mentoring, leading workshops and supporting fellow students.

Apply to be a CILA Student Leader

The team of Intercultural Outreach and Retention Leaders facilitates workshops for WSU Vancouver students and high school students on topics such as:

  • Self-care and wellness
  • Cultural and gender identity development
  • The connection between power and privilege

As a student leader, you will mentor new students, support Cougs in their growth, build meaningful connections across campus and become a key part of the CILA community.

Students collaborating on laptops around shared tables inside a WSU Vancouver computer lab

Interested?

Contact us: van.cila@wsu.edu