The Office of Institutional Diversity held its annual Day of Dialogue, this year themed Compassion Actions for A Just Community. The event brought together educators and activists from across the region and beyond to discuss best practices in the areas of diversity and social justice.
In his opening remarks, President Dana Mohler-Faria discussed the importance of these things, and the reasons BSU hosts the popular event.
“Ultimately, when a community has respect for everyone, treats everyone with dignity, and values everyone, everything that institution does will be excellent,” he said. “So it begins with us. It begins with a community of people, no matter who we are or where we come from, no matter what our background is, coming together and understanding that it is about all of us.”
After sharing a personal story highlighting the important ways we depend on each other, the president said, “The connection we make with people, the understanding we make with people, changes people’s lives,” Dr. Mohler-Faria said.
As part of his remarks, the president expressed his happiness over the news that Fred Clark, ’83, current executive vice president and vice president for external affairs, was recently selected as the next president of BSU.
“This campus and our trustees did something the other night that ensured the positive future of this campus, that has given everybody continued hope, and it is my hope is that the next president does far more than I was able to do,” he said.
President Mohler-Faria then introduced Mr. Clark, who gave thanks to those who made the Day of Dialogue possible. In closing, he said, “I am extremely mindful of the foundation that Dr. Mohler-Faria has laid with all of us and all of you, with a focus on diversity, inclusion, social justice and compassionate action for this university, and I have every intention of building on that.”
The day’s events included groups of BSU students acting out diversity scenarios and leading a discussion regarding the creation of a more just campus community, breakout sections on a wide range of topics, workshops that emphasized best practices, and a panel discussion on “models of compassionate action.” BSU Professors Diana Fox, James Hayes-Bohanan and Hadidja Nyiransekuye served as panelists, with each speaking about personal projects which led to positive transformation in themselves, oversea communities and students.
BSU strives to be a role model in all things pertaining to diversity and social justice, but is constantly trying to improve, said Dr. Sabrina Gentlewarrior, director of the Office of Institutional Diversity. During the event, the floor was opened to the audience to state areas of improvement the university could benefit from. Supporting new students, policies, and building accessibility were a few enhancements mentioned.
“There is always more to do in a compassionate community,” Dr. Gentlewarrior said. (Story and photos by student Caitlin Seddon, University News)
