Introductory Workshop on Jewish Identity and Antisemitism on Campus Location: White River C Antisemitism is rising across the United States and on college campuses. This professional development workshop for university and college administrators provides an overview of Jewish identity, the diversity of Jewish experience, historical and contemporary manifestations of antisemitism, and how to address antisemitism within the context of free speech and academic freedom. It will delve into themes such as Jews, race, whiteness, the intersection between racism and antisemitism, understanding the relationship between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, and how antisemitism plays out on college campuses today. Participants will come away with an increased knowledge and awareness of antisemitism and their role in creating an inclusive campus environment. Presenter(s): Naomi Greenspan, M.A. Academic Engagement Network |
Human Resources and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Location: 101 The diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) function deals with the qualities, experiences, and work styles that make individuals unique (e.g., age, race, religion, disabilities, ethnicity) and how organizations can leverage those qualities to support business objectives. It also includes matters focusing on diversity-related careers, communications, legal and regulatory issues, technology, metrics, outsourcing, effective diversity practices, and global diversity issues. It touches on but does not primarily deal with federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity (EEO) laws. These are encompassed under the EEO topic within the staffing management function (for EEO matters arising in the pre-employment context) and the employee relations function (for EEO matters arising within the employer-employee relationship). Studies show that teams or organizations of individuals with a diverse mix of qualities, experiences, and work styles tend to have a richer set of ideas, perspectives, and approaches to a business issue available. This overview covers the following major topics: Relationship with equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. The business case for DE&I. Designing a DE&I initiative. Elements of a DE&I initiative. Diversity recruitment and sourcing. Change management as it relates to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Careers in diversity. Presenter(s): Deborah Nicholas, M.B.A. Indiana University Indianapolis |
Standing on (Your) Business: Navigating the Transformational Journey of Self-Alignment Location: 102 This interactive session explores the multifaceted barriers students and professionals encounter on their journey toward self-alignment. Delving into external pressures, fears, and internal challenges, the session offers insights into the complexities of maintaining authenticity in the face of societal expectations. Attendees will gain a deep understanding of the impact of comparison, competition, and self-esteem on their ability to align personal goals with genuine aspirations. Practical strategies for overcoming these barriers will be discussed, including self-awareness practices, goal-setting techniques, and boundary establishment. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with valuable tools to navigate the path to self-alignment, fostering personal growth, and enhancing overall well-being during their college experience. Presenter(s): Angelica Smith, M.S.Ed. Marian University |
How our LGBTQ Centers Fail (and what we can do about it) Location: White River A In this session, participants will examine how LGBTQ+ Centers are built for a variety of members of the LGBTQIA+ communities, particularly Black, Brown, and Indigenous people, by insidious structures within higher education. With this in mind and using theories and tools such as intersectionality, examination of colonization, and power analysis, participants will leave informed and with tools to aid in moving their spaces closer to equity. Presenter(s): Nathan Nguyen, M.Ed. Western Michigan University |
Intersectionality and Critical Pedagogy: Reflections on Doing Better in Difficult Times Location: White River B This workshop will bring together ideas about how to develop and implement intersectional pedagogical practice in difficult times and include some definitions, historical examples, and ideas on how to challenge students to think intersectionally, even as we as teachers continue to hone our skills. Presenter(s): Michelle Moyd, Ph.D. Michigan State University |
Grant Funding, Faculty Development, and DEI Location: 103 While many higher education institutions are reframing their mission and goals around diversity, equity, and inclusion, major federal research funders are increasingly requiring that grant proposals directly address the potential human, social, cultural, and/or environmental impact of funded projects. These requirements often include new proposal sections. For example, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) asks for a "Plan for Enhancing Diverse Perspectives" and the Department of Energy (DoE) now requires a "Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Research Plan." Whether writing a proposal for individual research funding or for a large research center, faculty must not only speak to the broader impacts of their research, but also develop actionable, measurable plans for enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within their fields. This presentation will provide guidance with an overview of key trends in DEI-related requirements for research grants. The presenter will explore (a) avenues for meaningfully incorporating DEI-focused goals within your grant proposal or research project, (b) insights into how proposal reviewers evaluate DEI sections, and (c) resources for developing your DEI competency and plans. This session serves the larger purpose of helping faculty bridge the gap between new, evolving funding requirements and their areas of expertise. Toward this end, those in administrative and leadership roles may find value in learning about the unique DEI grant consultation service developed within Michigan Engineering's Office of Culture, Community, and Equity. Presenter(s): Savannah Hall, Ph.D. University of Michigan |
The 9 C's and Dismantling the Necessity of Vocal Code Switching
Location: 105 This session focuses on the dangers of “Comfort” within academic music programs and its subsequent effects on courses of study, professors, and students and the presenter will envision solutions for more equitable musical environments. Presenter(s): Alonza Lawrence, D.M. University of Illinois |
SA Pro’s Groove: A Practitioner Transition Guide for Grad Students Location: 104 This Beyoncé-themed, interactive presentation is a fun-filled session aimed to help graduate students with their transition from full-time student to full-time professional. Presenter(s): Kirby R. Gibson, M.S. Michigan State University Sachet K. Watson, M.S. Indiana University |