AU Merge has set its sights on raising awareness about diversity on Auburn's campus.
It is a new organization striving to create an all-inclusive atmosphere on campus. AU Merge said they believe the treatment and opportunities students receive should be based on ambition and moral character.
According to AU Merge's mission statement, there are more than 30 organizations that promote diversity and believe in creating opportunities and sharing their cultures. The statement said AU Merge has recognized these students and has worked to have a group of liaisons from a number of these organizations.
AU Merge said they want to act as a resource for all of these diverse organizations. It does this by helping plan events and helping organizations make connections with other organizations that also promote diversity.
The second purpose is to better Auburn University as a whole by doing away with outdated University policies and proposing new solutions to SGA.
AU Merge also said they want to spread awareness by sponsoring educational events that allow students to make connections. Some events planned for this year include concourse demonstrations and open forums. There are also plans to start having socials and dinners that anyone is welcome to attend.
A small group of students decided to start this organization because they wanted to create an inclusive campus where every student can feel at home, according to Shelbie Cole, president of AU Merge and junior in microbiology.
"We decided that this was a pressing issue at Auburn and, from that, we spent the whole summer creating this organization," Cole said.
Garrett Wilson, senior in accounting, became involved with AU Merge because he wanted the University to be a place where all students receive equal opportunity and treatment.
"I believe that Auburn is truly a family," Wilson said, "I want all students to feel like they are a part of the family."
Wilson said members of AU Merge see people for their drive, commitment and moral character.
According to Wilson, AU Merge does not judge for race, gender, religious views or sexual preference. Wilson also said his favorite aspect of AU Merge is how it caters to all forms of diversity.
"I am very excited about the future relationships and connections AU Merge has in store for me," Wilson said.
Harlan Bailey, freshman in agricultural business, helped start the organization. He said he enjoyed getting to participate in O-Days this year.
"Once I let people know what the organization is about, they are so into wanting to help and join," Bailey said. "This puts joy in my heart because it shows me that the work we did during the summer was not in vain."
Bailey said he hopes AU Merge will help students have an amazing experience at the University.
Because AU Merge is new to campus, its members encourage everyone to check out its page on AU Involve and join them in making Auburn a more diverse university.
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