Point Loma Nazarene University’s new Stepped Care model in the Counseling Center offers five groups to cultivate a space where students can find connection and guidance. One of the groups, “Living in Color,” aims to promote inclusion for female students of color on campus. The Point conducted an email interview with one of the group leaders, Roslene Curtis, who works as a mental health counselor in the Counseling Center, about what Living in Color does and how it benefits involved students.
TP: How is a group like this impactful for women of color? How have you seen it influence their life outside of the group?
RC: Living in Color: Women of Color Process Group is more than just a gathering, it’s a space of affirmation, healing and empowerment. It’s a place where women of color can exhale, be seen and share their lived experiences without having to explain or justify them. This kind of connection builds resilience, confidence and a deep sense of belonging that extends far beyond the group. This group is designed to provide an experience for participants with a renewed sense of self, stronger self-advocacy skills and the courage to take up space, whether that be in classrooms, workplaces or personal relationships. Beyond individual growth, this mental health group fosters a collective strength, reminding each member that they are not alone in their experiences. The impact is both personal and communal, reinforcing the power of shared support and the importance of spaces that honor and uplift their voices.
TP: How does your group contribute to cultural acceptance and diversity at PLNU?
RC: Living in Color seeks to nurture a culture of belonging by fostering conversations that validate experiences, challenge biases and cultivate understanding. When students feel safe to bring their whole selves into a space, that energy can carry over into the larger campus community. Many group members become catalysts for change, bringing the confidence and awareness they develop here into classrooms, organizations and leadership roles. By centering voices that have historically been unheard, the hope is for this group to actively contribute to a more inclusive and culturally responsive environment at PLNU.
TP: Was this group created as a result of there not being enough spaces to find belonging, specifically for women of color?
RC: Living in Color is a mental health group created to address the unique mental health needs of women of color. Many mental health groups provide participants with a sense of belonging through shared experiences. For example, a grief group is formed to support individuals whose emotional or mental health has been affected by loss. Members often find a sense of belonging by connecting with others who have experienced similar losses. However, the purpose of such groups extends beyond fostering belonging. Rather, they are designed to meet specific needs related to the group’s focus, encompassing the many facets associated with its theme.
TP: How do you think PLNU can learn from the formation of groups like this and contribute to a place of inclusion in the future?
RC: The impact of Living in Color demonstrates that students thrive when they have spaces designed with their lived experiences in mind. PLNU’s thoughtful approach to assessing and responding to student mental health needs, whether it be through support groups for grief and anxiety, or tailored initiatives like men’s groups, reflects a genuine commitment to fostering inclusion. By continuing to listen, learn and adapt to the evolving needs of our community, PLNU can further nurture an environment on campus where all students feel seen, valued and supported, helping our campus community to flourish.
TP: Are there any changes you want to make within your group going forward?
RC: Living in Color is constantly evolving to meet the needs of its participants. Moving forward, we will continue to do our best to provide a safe space for participants to connect, express themselves, reflect and process. These include creative outlets, interactive activities and deeper self-exploration practices. Our goal is to continue fostering a space where participants feel supported, empowered and free to engage in meaningful experiences that help them navigate their journeys with confidence.
TP: How do the new policies in place with DEI relate to diversity efforts like this?
RC: Rooted in the Wesleyan Holiness tradition, which emphasizes love, justice and the dignity of all people, this group reflects the university’s mission to cultivate spaces of belonging and spiritual growth. As policies evolve, it will be important for all of us to find ways to continue nurturing inclusive spaces that support students in their personal, academic, mental health and faith journeys.
Living in Color: Women Of Color Process Group began Jan. 28 and will continue to meet through April 15. It takes place from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Counseling Center Conference Room in Taylor Hall. For more information, students can contact Roslene Curtis at swmaccrcurtis0022@pointloma.edu or Sylvia Guevara at swmacc-sguevara0023@pointloma.edu.
