Philosophy of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equality
Since beginning my professional academic career in 2003, I have served at a comprehensive university, a regional public college, and a private liberal arts university. While these institutions differ in the type of students they typically attract, the overall missions of each is the same; to serve and educate a diverse student population and prepare them for the world beyond. This is a mission I have wholeheartedly embraced throughout my career. By far, the most favorable aspect of a career in the academic community, is the tremendous diversity I see daily. I take value in the fact that college campuses like the one I currently serve, are a snapshot of global community; where different ages, races, and ethnicities reside and work together. The following narrative highlights my personal journey with inclusion and diversity and how I continue to advocate for equality of my students, faculty and staff colleagues, friends, and family.
Know the Story
I vividly recall a conversation with colleague of color while participating in the certified seminar leader training of “Building a Welcome Campus Community” at the State University of New York, College at Oneonta. As part of this program, participants were asked to interview each other on their upbringing and personal history of diversity and inclusion. I listened intently as my counterpart described her life filled with discrimination and exclusion based on her race and gender. She ended her story with a passionate plea for the importance of programs like the one in which we were participating. She asked me why a conspicuously white male had a desire to help build an inclusive campus community. My first reaction was to reply that I want to help make a difference in the lives of those I interact with, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or background. This was as true then as it is today. However, my colleague was a little shocked at the story I told of my upbringing in a small rural area of southwestern Oklahoma.
I grew up in the town of Anadarko, Oklahoma. The “claim to fame” for this town is that it is recognized as the Indian Capital of the Nation. Large signs at all entrances to the town display this moniker. Per capita, more Native Americans live in Anadarko than any other town in the United States. I grew up a minority in my community. Much of the municipal and commercial services were focused on serving the large Native American population. Most of my classmates and friends were Native American. It wasn’t until I went to college as a first-generation student that I realized not all places were like where I grew up. By no means I am equating by upbringing to the difficult life my colleague described. While I hadn’t endured years of discrimination, I didn’t have the typical privileged upbringing she expected me to describe. This was an important lesson for both of us; never assume you know someone until you know their story.
I feel strongly, that the only way to truly know what someone has gone through (or it going through), is by hearing their story. Which is done best when someone (a student, a friend, a family member) feels comfortable sharing their story. My most cherished memories of my academic career are those of my students sharing their stories; ranging from family issues, relationship issues, struggles with gender identity, and many others. These stories have helped shape how I approach diversity, inclusion, and equality in my professional and personal life.
Advocate for Equality
I consider myself a compassionate person with a kind demeanor. I fully embrace my religious upbringing that we are all called to love one another and to show empathy. To simply empathize with victims of discrimination and not do anything about it is a travesty. This is why I have sought opportunities during my career to be an advocate for equality. In addition to certified training in diversity, I have been a faculty facilitator of diversity dialogues at Oklahoma City University; meant to orient incoming freshmen on issue of diversity and inclusion. Additionally, I have served as the diversity advocate on a search committee the University.
I want my students and colleagues to know through my actions that equality and inclusion are important to me. I find great satisfaction in getting to know the needs of my students and colleagues and helping others realize the importance of diversity, equality, and inclusion to the broader society. “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities” (Stephen R. Covey).
Know the Story
I vividly recall a conversation with colleague of color while participating in the certified seminar leader training of “Building a Welcome Campus Community” at the State University of New York, College at Oneonta. As part of this program, participants were asked to interview each other on their upbringing and personal history of diversity and inclusion. I listened intently as my counterpart described her life filled with discrimination and exclusion based on her race and gender. She ended her story with a passionate plea for the importance of programs like the one in which we were participating. She asked me why a conspicuously white male had a desire to help build an inclusive campus community. My first reaction was to reply that I want to help make a difference in the lives of those I interact with, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or background. This was as true then as it is today. However, my colleague was a little shocked at the story I told of my upbringing in a small rural area of southwestern Oklahoma.
I grew up in the town of Anadarko, Oklahoma. The “claim to fame” for this town is that it is recognized as the Indian Capital of the Nation. Large signs at all entrances to the town display this moniker. Per capita, more Native Americans live in Anadarko than any other town in the United States. I grew up a minority in my community. Much of the municipal and commercial services were focused on serving the large Native American population. Most of my classmates and friends were Native American. It wasn’t until I went to college as a first-generation student that I realized not all places were like where I grew up. By no means I am equating by upbringing to the difficult life my colleague described. While I hadn’t endured years of discrimination, I didn’t have the typical privileged upbringing she expected me to describe. This was an important lesson for both of us; never assume you know someone until you know their story.
I feel strongly, that the only way to truly know what someone has gone through (or it going through), is by hearing their story. Which is done best when someone (a student, a friend, a family member) feels comfortable sharing their story. My most cherished memories of my academic career are those of my students sharing their stories; ranging from family issues, relationship issues, struggles with gender identity, and many others. These stories have helped shape how I approach diversity, inclusion, and equality in my professional and personal life.
Advocate for Equality
I consider myself a compassionate person with a kind demeanor. I fully embrace my religious upbringing that we are all called to love one another and to show empathy. To simply empathize with victims of discrimination and not do anything about it is a travesty. This is why I have sought opportunities during my career to be an advocate for equality. In addition to certified training in diversity, I have been a faculty facilitator of diversity dialogues at Oklahoma City University; meant to orient incoming freshmen on issue of diversity and inclusion. Additionally, I have served as the diversity advocate on a search committee the University.
I want my students and colleagues to know through my actions that equality and inclusion are important to me. I find great satisfaction in getting to know the needs of my students and colleagues and helping others realize the importance of diversity, equality, and inclusion to the broader society. “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities” (Stephen R. Covey).
