Unity Wing

The Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing 

Develop global ambassadors for diversity, inclusion, and equity 

equipped to be world changers who create a different future. 

The Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing is comprised of the Intercultural Center, the Pride Center, and the Women's Center. Located on the first floor of the Student Center, this designated space for students to develop and embrace their diverse identities, is open Monday-Friday. Explore upcoming events, office hours, and find out how you can become involved by visiting Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing - Eastern. 

Mission 

The Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing champions creating an inclusive community at Eastern. Each Center builds bridges of intersectionality that celebrate the kaleidoscope of cultures and identities through co-curricular programs and services that integrate diversity, inclusion, and equity into the holistic development of all Eastern students. The Unity Wing is a campus-wide resource grounded in Eastern's core values for meaningful connection and outreach, engagement, and accountability to the level of awareness and action. 

History  

The Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing is named after Dr. Arthur L. Johnson, former sociology professor at Eastern Connecticut State University. Known for his work in organized labor, community action, and higher education, Dr. Johnson served as a faculty member and administrator from 1970 - 1999. 

A community leader and civil rights activist, Dr. Johnson was a life member of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People).  He dedicated himself to civic and community engagement. Until his death on September 6, 1999, Dr. Johnson sought to raise the consciousness of government leaders, corporate executives, educators etc. and was in the forefront of the struggle for civil rights and an advocate for freedom and equality. 

The Pillars 

Intercultural Center 

1st Floor Student Center 

Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing, Room 114 

Josiah Cook (he/him) 

Cookjosi@easternct.edu  

(860)465-4421 

www.easternct.edu/interculturalcenter/ 

The Intercultural Center is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion as guiding principles in the pursuit of knowledge, personal growth, and social transformation. We work to dismantle systemic barriers that limit the advancement of marginalized communities by fostering authentic relationships, formal/informal mentorship, and intercultural dialogue. Through a culture rooted in trust, belonging, and holistic connection, we create a space where individuals are encouraged to bring their full selves, support one another’s journeys, and grow together. Our commitment empowers communities to lead with empathy, advocate for justice, and collectively build a more inclusive and equitable future for all. 

Pride Center 

1st Floor Student Center 

Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing, Room 108G 

Nicole Potestivo (she/her) 

potestivon@easternct.edu 

860-465-0015 

www.easternct.edu/pridecenter/ 

The Pride Center believes in the promotion of a more just world fueled by radical self-love and community engagement. Our center actively works to create a campus culture that acknowledges and values diverse gender identities, gender expressions, and sexualities through educational outreach, community building, and providing access to resources. Here students can navigate the path of self-exploration, intersectionality, and agency in a supportive environment. 

Women's Center 

1st Floor Student Center 

Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing, Room 116 

Starsheemar Byrum (she/her) 

byrums@easternct.edu 

860-465-4313 

Women's Center - Eastern 

The Women’s Center empowers women across the academy to boldly envision and fully realize their potential by fostering self-leadership, collective strength, and resilience. Guided by an intersectional framework, we engage the campus through innovative programming, scholarship, and activism that build community, celebrate identity, and promote personal growth. The Center also responds to and works to prevent interpersonal violence while expanding access to resources and opportunities that support the success and well-being of women and all members of the campus community. Rooted in Power, we affirm, advocate, and act in solidarity to create lasting change.