Janelle White is the Director, Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) at the University of Chicago. As one of the central offices in the Center for Identity + Inclusion, OMSA provides support services to students across campus. They are known especially for hosting events and activities designed to foster inclusive community-building. For addressing student concerns, OMSA can serve as advocates for both current and incoming students as they become oriented to campus life at the University.
Tell us more about yourself and what led you to your current position at the University of Chicago?
JW: I am an educator, a wife, and a daughter, who loves the Indianapolis Colts (my hometown) and resides in Chicago Bears territory. Through my work at the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA), I get to help students find community and a sense of belonging on our campus. As a first-generation college student, I know firsthand what it feels like to navigate higher education with limited guidance. If I can make this journey easier for someone, then I can give back to students in the same way that my mentors supported me. I started at UChicago in January 2021. From my first conversations with UChicago staff and students, I knew that I would be at home here and that my work would make a difference in this community.
How are you working to make an impact on the University of Chicago community?
JW: As I look at the role of OMSA, we have a responsibility to make sure that our students of color (both domestic and international) feel welcomed and included on campus. The Center for Identity + Inclusion serves as a “home away from home” for marginalized students. Through our initiatives, OMSA should be a recognized name and a utilized space by all marginalized students on campus to feel heard, seen, and valued.
What advice can you give to prospective and incoming students?
JW: I would advise new students to embrace the discomfort that comes with growth. Higher educational experiences are transformative experiences that will provide many challenges and hurdles, embrace them. Try something new and explore the city of Chicago. Meet someone different from you, learn about who they are, and value the experience that they share with you.
Share with us how you relax and practice self-care when you are not working?
JW: I am a recent homeowner, so I enjoy spending time at places like HomeGoods imagining what the pieces will look like in our house. I love being outside when it’s warm, so pretty much anything that will get me outside, I will do. Introversion is my default, so I limit my non-work time to my partner, close friends, and family. I think the only other thing is that I love to travel (especially to warm climates). One of the most important things for me when it comes to self-care is setting boundaries. In order for me to serve others, I have to be able to take care of myself. So, I set boundaries around when I work, when I spend time with loved ones, and when I take time for myself.
To learn more about the Center for Identity + Inclusion and the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, be sure to visit their website.