Students of Color Residential Community

David Chiu
Professor of Computer Science
Thompson 303
253.879.2853
dchiu@pugetsound.edu

Colin O'Loughlin
Director of Residence Life
253.879.3317
coloughlin@pugetsound.edu

Robin Aijian
Director of Undergraduate Admission
253.879.3986
rbaijian@pugetsound.edu

This is the sound of real friendship and connection.

Going away to college is one of the biggest changes in life! Are you feeling a little nervous, unsure of what to expect, or worried you’ll be the only person of color in your classroom? That’s why we started the Students of Color Residential Community (SCRC).

We wanted to create a supportive community of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students so that, from day one, you’ll have peers you can relate to, know trusted faculty to talk to and ask for help, and live in spaces that feel supportive and safe. Don’t just feel comfortable at college—explore and affirm your multidimensional identities! Navigate campus life in solidarity! Achieve your academic dreams! Join the SCRC today.

“Liberated relationships are one of the ways we actually create abundant justice, the understanding that there is enough attention, care, resource, and connection for all of us to access belonging, to be in our dignity, and to be safe in community.”
- Adrienne Maree Brown

What is the Students of Color Residential Community?

Members live together in an assigned residence hall with the support of a dedicated Resident Assistant (RA).
First year students take a class together and have the opportunity to collaborate on homework and projects outside of class.
Assigned Faculty Advisor David Chiu meets with students to discuss academics, individual educational trajectories, and provide support through college life.
Go on special excursions, field trips, and social outings.
Being part of the SCRC does not incur additional costs or impact your financial aid.

Who is the SCRC for?

SCRC is meant for those who identify as students of color. All academic focuses and interests are welcome.

How to apply:

To be considered for the SCRC, enrolled students need to apply by June 4. Click the button below to apply.
Applications are reviewed by a committee which includes the faculty advisor, residence assistant, and members of the housing and admission department.
Selected students will be notified in early June.

Application Questions:

What interests you about joining the Student of Color Residential Community?
What does community look like for you?
What are three things you need in a community to be successful?
List three skills you can bring to the community.

Students of Color Residential Community from University of Puget Sound on Vimeo.

Become Part of the SCRC!

Apply Today

Meet Professor David Chiu

Professor Chiu teaches courses in the introductory computer science sequence, database systems, high-performance computing, and operating systems. His research interests include issues in distributed & cloud computing, and large-scale data management. A former first-time-in-college student of color, David believes strongly that faculty mentorship and opportunities to create enduring bonds with peers is what led to his early buy-in and success at his undergraduate institution. David is committed to supporting the SCRC cohort, helping each student navigate college life, and providing individualized pathways to academic success.

Meet the RA: Winston Zapet Bamac '27 (he/him)