Mission:
The Beverly Belisle Empowerment Retreat (BBER) is a collaboration between the Mosaic Center for Students of Color and the Women and Gender Equity Center. We strive to create a welcoming and empowering community for those identifying as women/femme or connecting to those experiences through a non-binary or gender-fluid identity.
This retreat is for traditionally underrepresented individuals in higher education who hold multiple marginalized identities and bring rich and diverse lived experiences; this retreat offers a space for individuals to connect with those experiences.
Named in honor of Beverly (Bev) Belisle, the former Director of The Mosaic Center for Students of Color, this retreat continues her legacy of building communities of love and support. Bev is one of the most dynamic and beloved former campus leaders, known for her work to uproot racism and build a thriving, nourishing, and safe campus community for students of color.
By celebrating our inner strengths and lived experiences, we aim to illuminate the contributions of unsung voices and shift the paradigm toward a more inclusive and empowered future. Together, we cultivate healing, love, and trust in ourselves while uplifting and empowering one another through hour-long sessions facilitated by experienced and dedicated ¶¶Òõ̽̽ professionals and community care activities.
Save the Date:
Retreat Dates: Saturday, November 2, 2024 & Sunday, November 3, 2024
Time: 11:30 - 6:30 pm
Location: Interfaith Center, 400 S. Prospect Street, Burlington - VT
Lunch and dinner will be provided each day.
Application Form:
Get ready for an incredible opportunity! The application is now open. Don't miss out—fill out the application form to secure your spot at this beautiful retreat.
Selection Process:
The selection committee will review all applications using a detailed rubric to ensure fairness and alignment with the retreat's goals. While all applications are thoughtfully considered, we will prefer first-time first-year students, new transfer students, seniors who have not participated in the former Women of Color Leadership Retreat, and those who express a strong need for the support and community this retreat provides. Our goal is to create a space that fosters empowerment and connection, particularly for those who may benefit most from this experience.