The University of Mary Washington continually and actively seeks a rich blend of cultural diversity in its faculty and staff, students, curriculum, and activities. The James Farmer Multicultural Center, named after the prominent civil rights leader who taught at the University of Mary Washington, specifically focuses on the academic and social well-being of students through programming, mentoring, and leadership opportunities. The Center also offers a wide variety of cultural programming, including the Cultural Awareness Series, which spans the academic year. The programs and activities for the various cultural celebrations highlight and enhance the education and appreciation of differences across the campus community. The series culminates with the Multicultural Fair, which attracts regional attendance.
While inclusion is a goal for all University organizations, several groups on campus assist in promoting diversity within the University community and offer programs and resources that foster an awareness and understanding of cultural differences and societal issues, including the Asian Student Association, the Black Student Association, Brothers of a New Direction, the Islamic Student Alliance, the Latino Student Association, Jewish Student Association, S.E.E.D. (Students Educating and Empowering for Diversity), PRISM (People for the Rights of Individuals of Sexual Minorities), Diversability, and Women of Color. Through these many efforts, the University strives to achieve a full measure of respect for, and appreciation of, the dignity and worth of all members of the campus community. These groups are open to all students.