M.O.C.H.A.: Men of Color, Honor and Ambition
M.O.C.H.A.: Men of Color, Honor and Ambition
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- M.O.C.H.A.: Men of Color, Honor and Ambition
Assistant Director for Affinity Programs and Leadership Development
gjwddi@rit.edu
Men of Color, Honor and Ambition is a one-year leadership development program with an emphasis on undergraduate men-identified, trans-masculine and non-binary students between their second and fifth academic years of study. Given educational disparities and underrepresentation in specific majors or careers MOCHA's programming is designed through the lens of men of color in order to close those systemic gaps.
Students will participate in a series of monthly workshops offered by faculty, staff, and community leaders; foster a sense of community and bonding with each other and other men-identified role models of color through social outings; and support their health awareness and development through their participation in wellness activities. The MOCHA program is open to all eligible students regardless of gender or national origin.
Mission and Vision
M.O.C.H.A. exists to provide personal, academic, cultural, social, professional, and leadership development to undergraduate males at RIT, in an effort to positively impact academic success, increase retention, and develop successful leaders of tomorrow, today.
M.O.C.H.A. participants will achieve academic excellence, graduate from college, and be empowered to become successful leaders and role models in their respective careers and communities. These men will be actively engaged in RIT and the local community and will forever be committed to achieving in every phase of human endeavor.
Program Goals
- Increase the retention rates of men of color
- Foster a sense of community among participants
- Support and challenge men of color to achieve academic excellence
- Develop an increased awareness surrounding business acumen, etiquette, professional attire
- Academic support mechanisms, and social activities
- Promote involvement and inclusion in leadership activities
- Promote community service and engagement