Community Engagement and Belonging

You Belong at Otis College

Otis College is committed to fostering a welcoming campus environment where all students, faculty, and staff can thrive in their personal, professional, and academic endeavors. There are numerous programs and initiatives the College engages with in an effort to engage its global community.

Signature programs include our Black Creatives Institute, BIPOC Student Summit, and other dynamic events that support our students' co-curricular experiences. We invite you to learn more about these and other offerings that foster exchange and collaboration across Otis College’s diverse community.

Welcoming a Global Community

Otis College is among the most culturally diverse colleges of art and design in the U.S. Approximately 37 percent of our 1,038 students are from outside California, and about 27 percent are international students, hailing from 34 countries. The Los Angeles region itself is one of the most globally connected in the country. As an Otis College student, you’ll meet (and learn from) people of different cultural backgrounds providing a valuable experience. You’ll also develop empathy, an expanded worldview, and an open mind, which are essential to your creative career success.

Group of diverse students on campus

Group of diverse students on campus

Group of diverse students on campus

We Welcome, Support, and Include

We’re a small school with a big heart. We foster a community in which you’ll have the support you need to grow personally and professionally.
We’re a small school with a big heart. We foster a community in which you’ll have the support you need to grow personally and professionally.
70100%+of Otis students are students of color
70%+
of Otis students are students of color
30100%are first-generation college students
30%
are first-generation college students
#18100in the Chronicle of Higher Education’s List of Colleges with the Greatest Racial and Ethnic Diversity
#18
in the Chronicle of Higher Education’s List of Colleges with the Greatest Racial and Ethnic Diversity

The Black Creatives Institute

Open to all Otis College Students, the Black Creatives Institute fosters community, enhances leadership skills, and provides resources for academic and professional success to Black Creatives and their peers. As part of Otis College's commitment to community-engaged programming, the Institute offers workshops, mentorship, and networking events. It aims to create a nurturing environment that encourages students to connect and develop the confidence and skills needed to excel.



Nick Negrete and Theresa Lucas

Learn More About Our Student Affairs Team

Learn about our Student Affairs team who collaborates with students and the Otis community to  foster a welcoming and inclusive campus.

Supporting Our Community

Supporting Our Community

The DEI Progress Report chronicles the comprehensive work the College has engaged in across the entire campus, including student programs, retention initiatives, faculty and staff development, and alumnx support.

Community Statement

Community Statement

Otis College is dedicated to preparing a global community of students to succeed in creative careers. Learn more about our approach to supporting excellence and innovation throughout our community.

Campus Community

Campus Community

Otis College is committed to fostering a diverse and welcoming  community, recognizing a variety   of experiences and perspectives as a valuable resource.

 

 

I want our college to be one that students experience as open, affirming, empowering, identity-conscious, and that allows for the possibilities to run wild. I want our sense of belonging to be revolutionary and impactful, and to foster a sense of joy.”
Dr. Nicholas Negrete, VP of Student Affairs, Campus Diversity, and Inclusion