James Farmer Multicultural Center helps students become agents of social change NBC4 Washington [Video]

When you think of a college education, you might focus on academics and career preparation. But for more than three decades, a special center at the University of Mary Washington has worked to help students become agents of social change and engaged citizens. 

Growing up in Fairfax County, Owen Chong graduated from Mount Vernon High School, where he was always surrounded by diversity. A full-ride scholarship led him to the University of Mary Washington, a predominantly white institution, as a computer science major. 

But quickly Chong found a home at the James Farmer Multicultural Center, or JFMC as students call it. 

“Coming to the JFMC, it’s a very homey space, and so it was just very comforting to have a space where I can meet other students of color or especially administrators. These are people I can look up to, confide in,” Chong said. 

The JFMC is a hub for …