Get Involved

Discover Your Community at WSU Vancouver

Building a sense of belonging is a vital part of your university experience. At WSU Vancouver, the Center for Intercultural Learning and Affirmation (CILA) provides a welcoming environment where you can celebrate your identity, develop leadership skills, and create lasting connections. Whether you are looking to join an established group or start something entirely new, there is a place for you here.

Engaging with campus life through CILA allows you to thrive academically and personally. By participating in student organizations, attending signature cultural events, or stepping into a mentorship role, you contribute to a vibrant campus culture. Explore the many ways to get involved and make your mark on the VanCoug community.

Student Organizations

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

Find student clubs on WSU Involve

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.

Start a new student organization If you have an idea for a new club, our team can help you bring it to life. We guide you through the registration process and connect you with a faculty or staff advisor.

Questions?

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

CILA Schedule

  • Monday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Tuesday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Wednesday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Thursday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Friday8:00am – 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 provide opportunities to learn from real-world experiences and celebrate identity in all its forms. These events are open to everyone.

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, with student voices at the heart of every program. Featured celebrations include.

CelebrationMonthFocus of Recognition
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 MonthMarchHeritage SeriesPromotes 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.
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 a tangible impact on campus by mentoring peers, leading workshops, and supporting fellow students.

Apply to be a CILA Student Leader The Intercultural Outreach and Retention Leaders facilitate workshops for the campus community and local high schools. Key topics include:

  • 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 fellow VanCougs in their growth, and build meaningful professional connections.

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

Interested?

Contact us: van.cila@wsu.edu