The Coalition of Minority Students (COMS), formerly known as the Coalition of Minority Student-Athletes, has undergone an expansion to include all minority students on the Johnson campus, irrespective of their involvement in athletics. The mission of COMS is to advocate for students of color at Vermont State University Johnson, regardless of their race, class, sexuality, or gender identities.

COMS recognizes the importance of providing a support system where students of color can freely discuss their experiences both on and off the playing field, especially in a predominantly white campus environment. The organization aims to create a safe and inclusive space that encourages open dialogue and understanding among minority students. Through this support system, COMS fosters a sense of community, empathy, and empowerment, ensuring that the voices and experiences of students of color are acknowledged and respected.

One of the key objectives of COMS is to facilitate effective communication between the Vermont State University Johnson Athletic Department, the broader campus community, and minority athletes and non-athletes. By establishing these communication channels, COMS seeks to ensure that the concerns and perspectives of minority students are heard, understood, and addressed by the relevant stakeholders. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of partnership and collective responsibility in advocating for the needs and well-being of students of color.

Additionally, COMS recognizes the importance of engaging in dialogue and raising awareness about the experiences of students and youth of color not only within the campus community but also in the wider Lamoille County area. By creating opportunities for open conversations, COMS aims to facilitate understanding, challenge stereotypes, and promote social change. The organization actively works to promote inclusivity, address racial inequities, and support initiatives that uplift students of color in Lamoille County.

Through its expanded scope, COMS plays a vital role in promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion at Vermont State University Johnson. By advocating for students of color, providing a support system, fostering communication, and creating dialogue, COMS aims to cultivate a campus environment where all individuals feel valued, represented, and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Vermont State University Johnson (VTSU) has demonstrated its commitment to supporting BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students by dedicating the Mamadou N'Diaye Resource Center on its campus. Named after Mamadou N'Diaye, an exceptional VTSU Johnson student-athlete who sadly passed away in July 2020, this resource center has been created by the Coalition of Minority Students (COMS). It serves as both an academic and mental health resource space, providing much-needed support and a safe haven for BIPOC students.

The establishment of the Mamadou N'Diaye Resource Center addresses the expressed concerns of BIPOC students who have felt a lack of support and representation on campus. The center aims to bridge this gap by serving as a dedicated space where COMS members can find support, engage in discussions, and build a sense of community. Moreover, the center will host a variety of events that are open to students, faculty, staff, and community members. These events, led by COMS members, will provide educational opportunities for individuals to learn about and engage with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion principles.

The resource center has been thoughtfully renovated and decorated by COMS members to create an inviting and conducive environment for learning and well-being. The room includes a designated area for academic assistance, featuring study spaces with comfortable seating, a desktop computer, and bookshelves stocked with relevant educational materials. This area encourages collaboration, study groups, and academic support tailored to the needs of BIPOC students.

Recognizing the importance of mental health, the resource center also provides a dedicated space for mental health assistance. It offers comfortable seating and computer access for Telehealth therapy, enabling students to seek confidential and professional support. Additionally, the center incorporates art and media carefully chosen to promote stress relief and self-help, creating an atmosphere that fosters emotional well-being and resilience.

By dedicating the Mamadou N'Diaye Resource Center, VTSU Johnson and COMS are taking significant steps towards creating a more inclusive and supportive campus environment. This dedicated space serves as a tangible manifestation of the university's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by BIPOC students and providing resources that cater to their specific needs. It signifies a collaborative effort to promote academic success, mental well-being, and a sense of belonging for all students, ultimately fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and equity is upheld.