For 20 years, the Office of Multicultural Arts Initiatives (OMAI) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has transformed what is possible when creativity, education, and community come together. Through the First Wave Hip Hop & Urban Arts Scholarship Program, the world’s first and only four-year full-tuition scholarship dedicated to Hip Hop and urban arts, OMAI supports a national community of artists, scholars, and leaders.
OMAI recruits talented students from across the country who are not only committed to their creative practice, but who are using their voices and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and the world. Through the pillars of Academics, Arts, and Activism, First Wave Scholars receive support to thrive at UW-Madison while developing their artistic excellence, leadership, and sense of purpose.
As scholars pursue their education at UW-Madison, new challenges and unexpected needs can emerge beyond tuition support. Access to resources that help cover essential expenses, respond to moments of crisis, and sustain meaningful engagement in the First Wave community can make the difference between simply attending college and truly thriving. As we celebrate OMAI’s 20th anniversary, your investment will help ensure First Wave Scholars have the support they need to succeed academically, creatively, and personally.
Our highest priorities are:
- Expanding wrap-around scholarship support to help cover essential needs beyond tuition, including books, meals, housing, and other educational expenses.
- Increasing crisis response funds to support scholars navigating unexpected financial challenges and urgent needs.
- Supporting programming that strengthens the First Wave experience through academic, artistic, and community-building opportunities.
Your giving supports the work we are building: ensuring First Wave Scholars have the resources, relationships, and opportunities to create lasting impact.
Thank you for celebrating 20 years of OMAI and investing in the next generation of creative leaders!