Diversity center furthering ‘goal of inclusive excellence’

It’s been five months since I arrived at the University of South Dakota as the director of the Center for Diversity & Community. We officially celebrated our opening Nov. 5, 2014, and since then have done a number of things that have been well received by students, faculty and staff. The Center exists to further the strategic goal of inclusive excellence through leadership development, multicultural talent development, education and advisement of students and student organizations. We are doing a lot of great things and our success can be spoken in terms of numbers.

• We have actively engaged 13 racial/ethnic, underrepresented and other marginalized student groups. Of which, nine currently have offices in the Center.
• We hosted three informal lunches with the director, student leaders and advisers.
• We celebrated Native American Heritage Month with 30 people with Native American storytelling.
• We co-hosted an international game night with the Center for Academic & Global Engagement and potluck with the Muslim Student Association, which was attended by 40 people.
• The history department approached the Office for Diversity and Center for Diversity & Community and we partnered to facilitate a dialogue with 45 people on “Race in America After Ferguson.”
• The first Finals Chocolate Break brought 275 students to the Center for domestic and international chocolates, and some creative diversions like coloring and conversation.
• In partnership with the Center for Academic and Global Engagement and Student Services, we hosted the MLK Celebration keynote speaker, Negin Farsad, along with a group of 11 student leaders.
• We learned about the culture and people of Sri Lanka at the International Club’s Culture Shock with 25 students attending.

The Center for Diversity & Community will continue this track record of success offering impactful opportunities for student engagement and inclusiveness. Come visit us and see how you can become involved in the Muenster University Center, Room 219.

— Lamont Sellers, director for the Center for Diversity & Community