SMU Kicks Off Diversity & Inclusion Education Program

[PonyPride]

From SMUMustangs.com:

SMU Athletics Kicks Off Diversity & Inclusion Education Program

Sept. 12, 2014

DALLAS (SMU) – The SMU Athletics Diversity Council’s Diversity & Inclusion Education Program kicked off this week with its first meeting.

Each support unit is represented in the focused 10-month education program, and each session focuses on developing greater understanding of diversity and inclusion as well as how to work as a cohesive unit committed to addressing bias and discrimination. The series of seminars will cover topics that integrate core competencies of higher educational professionals, equip participants with knowledge on issues related to diversity and inclusion, as well as helping develop tangible skills that participants can use in their daily work to maintain a supportive environment that maximizes performance. The seminars will be presented in a variety of formats including guest speakers, group activities, personal reflection and case studies. They will be facilitated by members of the Athletics Diversity Council.

“Celebrating diversity and inclusion is central to establishing a model athletics program,” said SMU Director of Athletics Rick Hart. “Our Strategic Plan, the SMU Advantage, calls us to this, and as Athletic Director, I am pleased that we are able to offer staff members the opportunity to participate in this series of seminars aimed at enhancing their understanding of issues and topics related to diversity and inclusion.”

The following staff members will take part in the program: Purity Ateku, Rhett Caviel, Kelli Clay, Emily Cobb, Mel deLaura, Jon Horton, Herman Hudson, Doris Hunter, Katie Glunt, Aaron Parris, Dexter Reece, Albert Veytia, Susan Vollmerhausen, Mike Walker, Andrew Ward and Cindy Zhao.

Playing a large role in the new program will be former women’s basketball standout Alisha Filmore. Filmore is serving as intern for the athletic administration and the Diversity & Inclusion program this academic year as part of an internship program funded through the American Athletic Conference’s Minority Grant.

[dirtysouthpony]

Good job Rick Hart.

[WildHorse]

Outstanding.

[LA_Mustang]

Well done, Rick!

[DanFreibergerForHeisman]

Coolness.