Our Programs
The Office of Student Inclusion and Belonging is rooted in Trinity’s value of Intentional Inclusion. SIB engages across campus with student groups, academic departments, offices and local San Antonio area organizations to create opportunities for students to participate in community-centered programs and initiatives. We aim to cultivate an environment where our community members feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Our programs and initiatives are guided by our principles: Educate, Engage, and Empower
All students, regardless of identity or background, are welcome to participate in SIB events and programs.
First-Gen Tigers Program
The First-Gen Tigers Program celebrates and uplifts the identities, experiences, and strengths of our first-generation community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We foster belonging and holistic student success through tailored programming, mentorship, and resources. By providing comprehensive academic, personal, and professional support, we empower first-generation students to persist, thrive, and achieve lasting success during college and beyond.
For more Information:
View the Office’s Linktree
Cultural Observances
The Student Inclusion and Belonging (SIB) Office collaborates with various campus partners, student groups, and city-area organizations to offer programming that highlights annual cultural observance months (e.g., Latinx Heritage Month, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Indigenous Heritage Month, LGBTQ+ History Month, etc.). Below are some key annual programs that we host and encourage our campus community to engage in.
Latinx Heritage Month
Annually, Trinity University honors Latinx Heritage Month through programming hosted throughout the month, Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. SIB and Mexico, the Americas, and Spain (MAS) host the annual El Mercado Celebration to kickoff Latinx Heritage Month with music, entertainment, and various local vendors with art, crafts, and community resources.
Martin Luther King Jr. Week
Annually, Trinity University honors the late Martin Luther King Jr. with a public lecture and participation in a San Antonio march commemorating the civil rights leader.
City of San Antonio Martin Luther King Jr. March
An annual tradition, Trinity University community members composed of students, faculty, staff, and alumni join the City of San Antonio to participate in the largest MLK March in the country.
Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture
Trinity University and San Antonio Martin Luther King Jr. Commission's annual MLK Jr. Commemorative Lecture features speakers who honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through their commitment to racial and social justice.
Cesar E. Chavez Day
Annually, Trinity University honors the late Cesar E. Chavez with a public lecture and participation in the San Antonio march commemorating the civil rights leader.
City of San Antonio Cesar E. Chavez March
An annual tradition, Trinity University community members composed of students, faculty, staff, and alumni join the City of San Antonio to participate in the
Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice.
Cesar Chavez Commemorative Lecture
SIB and Mexico, the Americas, and Spain (MAS) feature speakers and discussions to honor the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez as a farm labor leader and civil rights activist.
Inclusive Celebrations
SIB annually hosts Inclusive Celebrations for graduating students to gather in celebrations that honor their cultures and identities.
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Celebration
The AAPI Celebration at Trinity University honors the achievements of graduating students who identify as Asian, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Desi American. This meaningful ceremony marks their transition from Trinity to the next chapter of their lives, celebrating their resilience, accomplishments, and cultural heritage. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office in collaboration with AAPI student organizations, the event provides an opportunity for graduates to reflect on their journey and celebrate with their community. Each student chooses someone significant to them to present them with a stole.
De Colores Celebration
The De Colores Celebration, named for the Spanish term for “in colors,” is a unique Latina/o event of Trinity’s graduates. Each graduating student can invite their family, friends, and countless members of the Trinity community who have helped them along the way. Each student chooses a loved one to present them with a colorful stole. The De Colores Celebration is hosted by MAS and TULA student organization.
First-Gen Celebration
The First-Generation Celebration at Trinity University recognizes and honors students who are the first in their families to graduate from college. This special event provides an opportunity for graduates to celebrate their achievements alongside family, friends, and members of the Trinity community who have supported them throughout their academic journey. Each student chooses someone significant to them to present them with a stole. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office, the celebration highlights the resilience, dedication, and contributions of first-generation students.
Kente Celebration
The Kente Celebration at Trinity University honors the achievements of Black and African American graduating students in the presence of their family, friends, and supporters. Rooted in traditions from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), this ceremony recognizes the resilience, accomplishments, and cultural heritage of its participants. Each student chooses someone significant to them to present them with a stole. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office, Black Student Union and the African Student Association, the celebration provides a meaningful space for graduates to reflect on their journey and embrace their future.
Lavender Celebration
Trinity University's Lavender Celebration honors graduating members of the LGBTQ+ community in recognition of their achievements and contributions. This meaningful event provides an opportunity for graduates to celebrate alongside their chosen families and support networks. During the ceremony, students receive lavender stoles—a color symbolically significant to the LGBTQ+ community—to wear at the University's commencement. Each student chooses someone significant to them to present them with a stole. The Lavender Celebration is hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office and PRIDE student organization.
New Student and Family Orientations
Our orientation programs are designed to help new students prepare for classes, introduce you to Trinity Traditions, and acquaint you to campus resources.
Tiger Takeoff
Tiger Takeoff is a two-day summer orientation for all new students and families to get acclimated to life as a Trinity Tiger. Students will get to stay in one of the residence hall rooms, build community with their peers, and be informed about campus resources and support services.
New Tiger Orientation
It's time to move in and get settled in as a new Tiger! August New Tiger Orientation (NTO) for new students and families include move-in, information sessions, a picnic, and more!
Spring New Tiger Orientation
Students who begin studying at Trinity in the spring semester have a special welcome to campus to learn all about campus life and resources.
Transitions Programming
Major Declaration Day
Annually, we host Major Declaration Day where Sophomore students can signify their major declaration by receiving a pennant customized to their major as a souvenir. Students can meet their department faculty and connect with peers in those majors. Students will have the opportunity to take a variety of photos alongside their friends and academic and faculty advisors. This is a moment to celebrate the beginning of your academic journey at Trinity.
Senior Year Experience
The Senior Year Experience Committee (SYE) is represented by Alumni Relations and Development, the Center for Experiential Learning and Career Success, Residential Life, and the Student Inclusion and Belonging Department to celebrate the graduating class and prepare them for their transition to post-graduate life. Learn more about the Senior Year Experience on the website.
To stay up to date with our inclusive programming, follow us @tuinclusion. For up to date information regarding Orientation & Transitions programming, follow us @tu_orientation.