Editor’s Note: Chevanne (“Chevy”) DeVaney assumed the role of director of multicultural affairs—a position that was previously split between multicultural affairs and residence life, but was made full time—in December. Previously, she was the assistant director of intercultural affairs and adviser to international students at  Hobart and William Smith Colleges. DeVaney holds a B.A. in English from William Smith and is pursuing a master’s degree in higher education administration at the University at Buffalo, which she expects to complete in the spring of 2009. In this interview, DeVaney tells what attracted her to Keuka and discusses her background, responsibilities, and vision for the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

CURRENTS: Why did you say “yes” to Keuka?
DEVANEY: The College’s commitment to diversity—with its new initiatives and vision for the future (including the creation of a full-time position)—got me excited. I like that Keuka wants to make sure we are educating folks on how to exist in this world and be responsible citizens. I think it is very important to the future of our students that they understand who they are, where they come from, and the role they play in our society in order for them to be able to build multicultural competence. I’m happy to be a part of that; it feels good to be a part of that. Also, Dean Blackburn and Tracy McFarland (associate dean) value the same things I value and have a real vision for student affairs and Keuka. They did a great job of passing on their enthusiasm.

CURRENTS: You worked for Hobart and William Smith for 10 years. What were your duties and responsibilities?
DEVANEY: I started in the alumni and advancement offices, where I managed volunteers and fund-raised for five years before moving into the Office of Intercultural Affairs and Opportunity Programs as an interim counselor in opportunity programs. I soon became responsible for the planning of campus-wide programming and making sure that our international students were in compliance with immigration rules and regulations. I was also adviser to the cultural and social justice clubs, and liaison to the Afro-Latino Alumni Association, an association designed to foster relationships with alumni of color as well as mentor students of color. I am a founding member of that group.

CURRENTS: What is the Office of Multicultural Affairs?
DEVANEY: This is a place where students are invited to come and share who they are—their cultures and beliefs. This is a place for everyone to feel welcome. When people walk by, I want them to know that this office is here and it is here for everybody. I hope that they see themselves represented in this office.

CURRENTS: What are your responsibilities?
DEVANEY: To create an environment that fosters and appreciates difference among the student body and faculty/staff, a place where conversation can happen. I’m also charged with educating the campus—as well as the community—about difference. It’s a great challenge to have.

CURRENTS: What have you been working on since your Dec. 10 start date?
DEVANEY: I’ve met with folks from various departments, as well as students. Basically, I asked them three things: what do you do, how do you do it, and how can multicultural affairs help you? I’m trying to find links between the departments to figure out ways we can interface and share resources.  

CURRENTS: What else is on your to-do list?
 DEVANEY: We have some basic things to do to start shaping the infrastructure of the office. We have to define diversity and what it means to the campus, and develop our short-term and long-term goals. I also have to work on programming for the short and long term. We have to take a look at our comprehensive multicultural identity, which is not just about cultural heritages, but religions, sexual orientation, family, etc. Our students are not just residential; we have ASAP (Accelerated Studies for Adults Program) students and other non-traditional students. We have to see how we are interacting with them and how we can enhance that interaction and foster relationships. I’m also going to take a look at how Keuka is represented out in the community to finds ways to foster those relationships.

-- Tanya Cornell-Kestler