Award: Silver

Institution: Chapman University

Title of Entry: Sikh Initiatives at Chapman University

About this Entry: A collaborative partnership between the Leatherby Libraries and Sikhlens founder Bicky Singh, Board of Governors member, was established in 2012 to promote a variety of Sikh initiatives across campus. This partnership has provided an avenue to increase the understanding of Sikh values in order to raise awareness of the impact on Sikh culture both on campus and around the world. Since this collaborative partnership was formed 8 years ago, Sikh initiatives have focused on telling the story of Sikh religion and culture through exhibits, lectures and interfaith programs. As a result of the overwhelming success of these library initiatives, Sikhlens has expanded their collaborative efforts and have worked with Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts to create a program that enabled film students to travel abroad to immerse themselves in the Sikh culture. Sikhlens has also partnered with the university to curate various events and experiences to enrich the lives of both students and the local/regional community. Opportunities included the creation of travel course to India to learn about the culture and heritage, a series of Sikh music and dance performances at the new Musco Center for the Arts, an annual dinner for the 200+ international students, a yearly Vaisakhi (Sikh New Year) celebration, and a Sikh art exhibit displayed at Chapman’s Leatherby Libraries. This collaborative partnership provides a way for the University to continue its commitment to enriching diversity and inclusion and supports its mission of nurturing students to become global citizens.