Colby has a strong commitment to diversity. The new Pugh Center provides a hub for programs and activities that promote intercultural communication and understanding on campus. Located in the Cotter Union, the Pugh Center serves as a clearinghouse for information on issues and concerns about race, ethnicity, religion, gender, and sexual orientation. The Pugh Center has 14 offices for student organizations, a common room for single group or collaborative programming, and a fully equipped kitchen. The 14 student organizations use their space to organize activities, work on projects, and conduct meetings at their convenience and in private. A coalition of student organizations, the Pugh Alliance, fosters inter-organizational cooperation and aids Colby's diversity initiative.
The common room serves as a gathering space for collaborative activities and experiential learning opportunities that promote and support the values of diversity. In addition, heritage/awareness months and weeks, prominent speakers, bands, and exhibits are scheduled in the common room. Cafe-style seating provides opportunities to interact with members of the campus community. Although first consideration is given to members of the Pugh Alliance, the common room can be reserved by any campus group. A portable resource center located in a corner of the common room houses a variety of cultural magazines, timely articles, and club brochures.
The Pugh Center kitchen is fully equipped and can accommodate eight comfortably. It is available by reservation.
