The University of Nebraska at Kearney's (UNK) Office for Intercultural Engagement and Leadership (IEL) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that promotes student growth, belonging, and leadership development. Located on the first floor of the Nebraskan Student Union, IEL serves as a hub for students from diverse backgrounds to connect, engage, and thrive.

Mission

IEL's mission is to cultivate environments that are affirming, welcoming, equitable, and inclusive, aiming to enhance student belonging and personal development. This commitment to equity and leadership is a shared responsibility among students, staff, and faculty, supported and guided by the entire campus community.

Key Initiatives and Services

Intercultural Scholars & Leaders Community (ISLC): This vibrant learning community offers first-time freshmen and transfer students opportunities for personal development coaching, academic success mentoring, professional development, and civic engagement. To join, students must be admitted to UNK and complete the scholarship application by March 1.
Affinity Honor Societies: IEL sponsors the following intercultural honor societies, which have been chartered to support student success through leadership development, community & civic opportunities, and social engagement, with the focus of centering academic excellence and scholarship. Their intention is to support the identity development of their members, promote equal opportunities among all peoples, and emphasize the academic advancement of intercultural collegiate scholars.
- Alpha Psi - Collegiate Latino Honor Society
  - The mission of Alpha Psi - Collegiate Latino Honor Society is to support student success by reinforcing academic intellect, creating cultural awareness, and performing service through community engagement.
- Upsilon Eta Upsilon - Honor Society for Black Excellence
  - The mission of the Upsilon Eta Upsilon Honor Society for Black Excellence is to support student success through scholarship, recognize and encourage leadership, provide service, and to establish the opportunity for a meaningful exchange of ideas.
Student Affinity Groups: IEL sponsors various student groups that focus on fostering a sense of belonging based on shared identities, ideologies, or interests. These groups are open to all UNK students and include:
- Women Are Problematic: Educates about women's issues past, present, and future.
- Hispanic Student Association: Promotes Hispanic culture within UNK and the surrounding community.
- Black Student Association: Provides a community for students to engage in social events and leadership experiences.
- PRISM: Strives for education and awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Global Student Association: Spreads cultural awareness through education and programming.
- African Student Union: Promotes interaction among students of African origins and those interested in African affairs.
- United in Dance: Showcases music and folkloric dances of different Latin American countries.
- First Nations Student Association: Commits to the success of Indigenous peoples at the university and in the Kearney community.
Loper Pantry: A resource providing food and personal care items to students in need, ensuring that all students have access to essential supplies.
Safe Zone Training: Programs designed to educate and promote awareness about LGBTQIA+ issues, fostering a campus environment that is inclusive and supportive for all students.

Contact Information

Location: Nebraskan Student Union, Room 106-115
Phone: (308) 865-8751
Email: intercultural@unk.edu
Website: UNK Office for Intercultural Engagement and Leadership

For more information or to get involved, students are encouraged to visit the IEL office or explore their Instagram.