Details for Participants and Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend The Allies Institute?
Any student! Whether you feel you are currently an “ally” or not!  The Allies Institute is open to all UR students: undergraduates, Law School students, graduate students and Continuing Studies students. Priority will be given to those who will be at UR for a considerable time after the program, but we do want a cross-section of students from all majors, years, backgrounds, etc. Forty spots are available.

How much does this program cost? Who's paying for it?
If you attend the Allies Institute, the cost to you is nothing!!! However, we are asking for a $25 deposit to be paid at the orientation session. That money will be returned when you come to the Allies Institute; if you do not show up, you don’t get your deposit back. The real cost to attend The Allies Institute is around $250 per person.

Where is the Allies Institute held?

The institute is held off-campus at the Jamestown 4-H Center (http://www.4-h.ext.vt.edu/camping/4hcenterhistory.html).  Transportation is provided to the site.

What do I need to bring with me to the Allies Institute?
Click here for a list of suggested items (pdf) to take with you.

Why is there a mandatory orientation meeting?
Students selected to be participants are required to attend one of the orientation meetings Monday, November 23 at 10 am, 1pm and 6:30pm. At this meeting, participants will meet each other, hear about all the logistical information necessary to attend the institute and turn in their $25 deposit. The meetings last approximately 45 minutes at most.

What is my commitment when I return?
Part of your time at the Allies Institute will be devoted to developing an action plan for UR based upon the issues we discuss. Since these action plans are developed by the participants, you will establish your commitment level after the Allies Institute. Participants also complete an assessment of their retreat experience after they return to campus.

What’s a typical day like at the Allies Institute?
Days are long, intense, and fun! Expect a lot of interaction, learning, and sharing. Days start around 8:30 in the morning with breakfast and go until 11:00 at night. Don’t worry – there’s free time built in for informal bonding! There will also be 2 workshops each day, small-group discussions, 3 meals, and snacks.

I’ve never been to a diversity program before… how do I know if the Allies Institute is for me?
The Allies Institute is for anyone interested in learning more about themselves, the cultures around them, and the world. If you are open to learning and growing, willing to share and participate in honest conversation, then the Allies Institute is for you. This program is about understanding others, and does not assume any previous experience with these areas.

I’ve done diversity programs before… what makes the Allies Institute different?
The Allies Institute is built upon a nationally recognized model that has taken place since the 1950’s for high school students. The program is not based on lectures; everything about it is interactive and based on your contributions. At the Allies Institute, it is safe for participants to ask difficult questions and struggle with challenging issues. And, the Allies Institute will make sure you leave with the skills needed to apply what you’ve learned in creative and practical ways so that you can spread the message of the program long after the four days end.

Who are the staff at this program?
The Allies Institute is staffed by University staff and faculty and past Institute student participants who share an interest in and passion for this work. An experienced human relations professional from outside of the University is also being brought in to direct the program.

I don’t have a real understanding of my culture or heritage. Can I still come?
Of course you can come! The Allies Institute is about learning and understanding, so we make no assumption about your knowledge of your culture or history. We also would never put you in a position when you would feel pressured to speak for all people who look, act, sound, live, or seem like you.

How can I find out more about The Allies Institute?
Call Camisha Jones (289-8630); you can also send an e-mail to allies@richmond.edu.