Letter to the Editor - Thanks for helping the mission of ODAMP

Dear Editor,

I appreciate you giving me the opportunity to write a few words to express my gratitude to all those who in one way or another supported the mission of the Montana State University-Northern Office of Diversity Awareness and Multicultural Programs — ODAMP — during these last five years — since this office was created.

In my former position as the ODAMP Director, I had the opportunity to work not only with Northern students, faculty, staff and alumni, but also with individuals in the community from good-hearted volunteers who gave their time to businesses that provided items and services as donations for the success of minority students, and professionals who were willing to offer their expertise to make a reality many of the initiatives and programs that this office sponsored.

I also would like to thank all the organizations in the state of Montana — too many to mention — that during these years supported the ODAMP with funding opportunities and resources.

Thank you as well to all those in the Hi-Line who participated, attending the functions that this office sponsored. I hope that you found it valuable, amusing, and overall illustrative. Many thanks as well to the Havre Daily News for assisting in providing information to everyone about the ODAMP’s activities and events.

I am very thankful to Chancellor Greg Kegel and Dean of Students Steve Wise — my bosses at different times — who trusted me with the endeavor of promoting understanding of multicultural awareness and social justice and who provided me with a white canvas to present a creative touch to the activities expected of this position. I would like to thank my peers at MSU-N who collaborated in many occasions with this office in a variety of ways. I wanted to let you know that I enjoyed very much working with you, that I learned a lot from you, and that I will always remember your camaraderie and friendship.

As I go away, relocating my residence in the East Coast, I leave letting you know about my deepest gratitude and the best wishes of well-being and prosperity. I hope, as well, that those of you who supported the multicultural programming that this office offered these last five years, continue advocating for equity, inclusiveness, and unity in all walks of life of this beautiful community

Warmly,

Cristina Estrada-Underwood

Former director of the Montana State University-Northern Office of Diversity Awareness

and Multicultural Programs