A monthly series on race and diversity sponsored by Concordia's Black Student Union (BSU) continues Wednesday, September 23 at 6 p.m. CT with a presentation entitled "Managing Your Transition Back on Campus."
Initiated in June, three summer Zoom presentations attracted over 35 participants each time who shared, collaborated, listened and lifted up each other.
No pre-registration is needed and to participate using Zoom technology, join by typing in the meeting ID – 7509236990.
“Having students, professors, staff members and representatives from three other universities created robust conversations and strong ideas on moving forward,” said Dean of Students Dr. Steven Gerner, who has moderated previous discussions along with Black Student Union advisor Eugene Pitchford, III and Nandi Mallett, an undergraduate admissions counselor.
“While there’s no official BSU student council in place as of yet, we have a few pivotal leaders whose talents we call upon when we need tasks done at high levels,” said De’Shawn Ford, Psychology ’23, who helped moderate the June session. These students are Olivia Crooks, Carlecia Plummer Lawrence, Adrianna Covert, Pearla Volkman and Rayanna Stamps. “We also collaborate with faculty and students of all races to promote community, as is evident through our monthly discussions,” Ford added.
The theme for the August session attended by 38 individuals was The Role of Higher Education in the Quest for Social Justice. “Each session has proven so valuable,” said Pitchford, “with people mentoring others and even several job connections being made.”
“Concordia University embraces diversity as necessary for the achievement of our educational Mission,” said Senior Vice President of Strategy and University Affairs Dr. Gretchen Jameson. “We commit to building a community where all people encounter opportunities to meaningfully participate and to discover and use their unique, distinct God-given gifts.”
Upcoming topics this semester are:
- “Student Resiliency and Academic Success,” Wednesday, October 28
- “Navigating Your Voice to Influence Others,” Wednesday, November 11
“An overwhelming response and positive reaction made it an easy call for our Black Student Union to respond with a continuation of these discussions,” Gerner noted. Concordia’s Black Student Union is open to all students and seeks in part to:
- Build a sense of belonging
- Provide a safety net to ensure a culturally responsive atmosphere
- Strengthen academic and behavioral success
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