CommUNITY Educators (CUEs) live within the residence hall and create and implement educational experiences for students related to community building, identity development, and social justice. These may include workshops, bulletin boards, information tabling, individual engagements, campus-wide programs, and more. CUEs also plan and implement micro-lessons during the in-center staff meetings to resident assistants, graduate students, and professional staff in their residence halls.
Learn more about this year's CUEs below!
Meet the CUEs
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Brownsburg, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
To help serve marginalized communities and promote DEIA at IU.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
People come from many different backgrounds and inclusion and equity is important to center while building community.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Evanston, IL
Why did you want to become a CUE?
Just as many CUEs inspired and supported me when I was a resident, I now want to have a positive impact on my community by becoming a CUE. Following the example of the incredible CUEs from my freshman year, I aim to foster a safe and welcoming environment where people can connect and celebrate our differences.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
I believe the CUE Program is vital to IU because it enables our community to celebrate our differences and embrace the idea that diversity is a strength. This program encourages individuals to be their authentic selves, imperfections and all, because, ultimately, we are all human, shaped by unique life experiences that have made us who we are today.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Greenwood, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I am always looking for an opportunity to grow as an individual, and I believe being a CUE is a fantastic way for me to help educate not only others, but myself on topics such as diversity and inclusion. CUEs have an opportunity to make meaningful impacts on the lives of students and the broader campus community and I aspire to be a part of creating inclusive and welcoming living environments, while also learning from the experiences and perspectives of others.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
In today's society, where diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important, it is crucial that individuals are knowledgeable and sensitive to the needs of diverse communities. This includes understanding different cultures, experiences, and perspectives, and being able to effectively communicate and interact with people from diverse backgrounds. The CUE program is necessary as it serves to push past social boundaries and help others connect with each other regardless of their identities.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Carmel, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
Coming to IU, I learned that there were so many kinds of people who faced different problems because of their social identities. When I first saw a bulletin board from the CUE program, I felt happy to know that there were people who focused on explaining pertinent social issues to our residence halls. I have always known that I want to learn and grow as a person and being a CUE would not only give myself an opportunity to learn more about social justice issues, but also educate the residence halls and the campus. Inclusivity and understanding are important values that I always try to use in my everyday life, and being a CUE only furthers those values.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program provides an opportunity for students to feel heard in their residence halls. It is so important to create a welcoming environment for a residence hall, becauseit's not only where students sleep but also where they study, create new friendships, and learn many life skills. The CUE program has also educated me on many topics, even though its passive efforts like bulletin boards, which has proved to be eye-opening and insightful. The CUE program is a unique program to IU that makes all students feel comfortable where they live.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Marion, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I wanted to be a CUE because I wanted to impact and empower residents in my community, just as my CUE did when I was a resident. I too wanted to foster a safe space where residents could feel a sense of community amongst one another.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
I believe the CUE Program is important to IU because it allows us to recognize and celebrate our differences in a respective and engaging way. There is passion and intention behind the work that we do, and I believe that to be the key to developing a more inclusive society.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I was inspired to become a CUE once I realized the impact I could have on others by educating them on identity, social justice topics, and pressing issues. I knew that as a CUE, I could become a small part of a great movement advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program is influential for IU because it allows students to learn more about the world and those around them. With the program, IU will become a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all and a hub for social change.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
Becoming a CUE is a compelling opportunity for me. I thrive on being part of a team and contributing to the community. This role would not only allow me to give back and teach the importance of community but also enable me to learn from others and gain new insights daily. I find great joy in witnessing others' success and seeing their smiles. Being able to support and contribute to someone else's achievements is incredibly fulfilling to me.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program is vital to the IU community as it fosters a strong sense of belonging. It creates an environment where individuals can be themselves and encourages personal growth and expression. Participants have the opportunity to voice their thoughts and ideas for improvements at IUB. The program promotes a family-like atmosphere where learning and collaboration are key, allowing members to meet and connect with many new people.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Richmond, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I want to be a CUE to have a direct and positive impact on the people around me. I believe that strong and connected communities are the most likely to succeed, so it is my goal to help build a community that is strong and connected.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
I think it is important to have a CUE in campus housing locations in order to help bridge any gaps that may separate residents from one another.By bridging these gaps everyone will have the opportunity to grow and feel more connected as a community.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I became interested in being a CUE through a friend and realized it was the perfect way to get involved on campus. I wanted to create real connections and inclusive communities where everyone feels valued, fostering growth and understanding that benefits both individuals and the broader campus culture.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program is important for IU because it promotes understanding and inclusivity at a primarily white institution. It fosters safe spaces for varying identities, promotes meaningful conversation, and supports minority students by promoting social justice and equity within the residential experience.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Brownsburg, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I applied to be a CommUNITY Educator because as a first-generation daughter of an immigrant who arrived in the United States in 2020 from Nigeria, I understand the challenges of finding one's community and building meaningful connections. Having overcome these struggles myself, I'm driven to support others who face similar difficulties. I'm passionate about creating an inclusive community where everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their identity or background. What draws me to this community educator role is the unique opportunity to not only educate but also learn from diverse cultures, aspects, and identities. I believe that by sharing experiences and perspectives, I can hopefully foster a deeper sense of belonging and empathy.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The Community Education program is needed at Indiana University, where students from diverse backgrounds and cultures unite to achieve a common goal of learning. However, our differences can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and difficulty treating each other with respect. The CUE program addresses this challenge by educating students about the importance of various identities, promoting respect, empathy, and inclusivity, even when beliefs differ. This helps fosters a welcoming environment, encourages understanding, and empowers students to succeed together.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I wanted to be a CUE because I believe community building in a place you live is so important and because DEI education is important now more than ever.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
With DEI programs lacking respect at a state level, a program like the CUE program is so important to make all students feel supported at IU.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I wanted to be a CUE because of what it meant to make a change on my campus. Making that change physically and not just through words. I wanted to make an impact on students by teaching them what diversity feels and looks like. As well as learning from them what it means as well. I as well wanted to promote social Justice, and advocate for others who may not have a voice or use my resources to make their voices louder.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
It provides a platform for students to learn about identity in ways they may have not before. It as well exposes issues within the world and on campus that are not expressed enough which I feel like is important.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I wanted to be a CUE to serve as a direct resource to students. I want to help students find their voices and support them if they feel lost. Moving into college can be daunting so I want to create a positive impact on students where they can have an encouraging environment.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE program is important to IU because it aids students through their transition to college and is a space that encourages respect for everyone. It celebrates differences and opens doors to different identities and cultures that students might have not been exposed to. The program brings people together and makes residents feel connected to their values and others.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
Since childhood, I have had strong passions for people and servitude. As a CUE, I am able to both learn from IU’s diverse student body and create spaces for cultural celebration, growth, and DEI education.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program is essential in the critical development of students to broaden their cultural worldview. Through this program, we strive to empower students to increase their cultural competence and sensitivity, encouraging an atmosphere of honor and respect.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Portage, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
As a minority at IU, I feel it is important to highlight the resources that are available to advocate for minorities voices’ and needs. The CUE position allows me to relate to and guide residents through their new journey at IU, while also exploring and educating about important social justice issues. The CUE role embodies such important messages and ensures the comfortability of every student on campus regardless of our differences. Bringing awareness to heavy topics and being the voice for under-represented students is an issue that I am extremely passionate about and believe is crucial in order to build positive communities. My goal as a CUE is to create a community where students' identities are not only respected but celebrated.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program is such an essential aspect here at IU because it advocates for inclusivity and ensures the comfort of its students, while also educating them on racial bias and misunderstanding. Through this program, students learn about various cultures, traditions, and become aware of all the diversity seen on campus. We as a school represent such a diverse population with students from all over the world, and this program is an invaluable resource for making sure everyone feels included and at home. The CUE program aims to educate students to learn more about other people, their cultures, and how to respect each other. This program executes these goals by not only offering safe communities for its students, but also a nonjudgmental atmosphere. It is in these spaces that CUEs aim to protect and foster students to explore other identities and cultures as well as tune into and express their own.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Valparaiso, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I wanted to be a CUE because identities are at the heart of each and every person, whether we realize it or not. Not only that, but the education of our own salient identities along with our peers' is the most crucial part of maintaining an active and empathetic community. I believe it is my duty to help facilitate these conversations to not only recognize growth in the community I am a part of but also myself.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
I believe the CUE program is important for IU because it highlights an educated way of thinking. When people first hear Indiana, they might not picture diversity and identity being at the forefront. With this program, we can change that notion from the inside and help usher new practices and help foster new perspectives.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Whitestown, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
I wanted to be a CUE because I believe in the power of education as a mechanism for social change. The CUE program was an incredible opportunity to broaden my own understanding of social justice and diversity issues while also educating others to create a more inclusive and accommodating community here on campus.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE program is important for IU due to the sheer size and reach of our university. We all come from such a diverse array of places—IU has representation from coast to coast and all corners of the world. Providing education to allow us to understand each other on a more authentic and human level is why the CUE program is so important.
Role: CommUNITY Educator
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Why did you want to become a CUE?
Last fall, I was inspired to become a CommUNITY Educator because of the CUE from my center, Nikki. I'mvery excited to have this role - I'm dedicated to engaging in civil and constructive dialogue with all my residents like she did and facilitate educational events that are fun and engaging!
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
In particular, as a transgender individual, I know the CUE program is extremely important for college students and IU as a whole because we are a resource for all students to learn about each other, and the struggles of people with marginalized identities that they may not be conscious of.
Role: Program Director
Hometown: Toledo, OH
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE Program is important for IU because it has the potential to improve the overall campus climate and community at large. Most residents are first year students, so the CUEs have a unique opportunity to instill the values of community and mutual respect as soon as they arrive on campus. The program also provides opportunities for collaboration and creativity in educational programming.
Role: Assistant Coordinator for Community Education
Hometown: Fort Wayne, IN
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE program is one of the most important programs on the campus of IU. Every student who enrolls here has different lived experiences and are coming from different places in their life. The CUE program is one of the only entities on campus focusing on the diversity and differences among the student population. Highlighting celebrations, sharing knowledge, advocating for students, and the constant unlearning to relearn the CUEs do make the student experience better.
Role: Assistant Coordinator for Community Education
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
The CUE program is important for IU because it allows students to learn about diverse populations and expand their cultural competency. It is also important for minoritized students to have a space in the residence hall to feel represented and be heard.
Role: Assistant Coordinator for Community Education
Hometown: Flat Lick, KY
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
There are too many reasons to name here! The biggest thing, and what stood out for me most as I learned more about the program, was the way that this program intentionally targets residential spaces as a key location in the movement to create an IU that is more inclusive, welcoming, and a place where students come to learn, grow, and develop. The focus on student development outside of the classroom is key to creating a college experience that engages students in their own growth and development. The CUE program facilitates this growth in a way that is authentic and natural. The way the CUEs educate, support, and advocate for their peers is something I hope all students in higher education spaces can experience one day.
To help serve marginalized communities and promote DEIA at IU.
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?
Why do you think the CUE program is important for IU?