Tuesday the LGBTA Center will present a student-centered educational experience through “Dine and Discuss” regarding the topic of the Ohio University Diversity Certificate.
Cory Frederick, a graduate assistant in the Diversity Studies Certificate program at OU, will be leading the event.
The lunch will offer the chance for students to become familiar with the DSC program which assists students in understanding the multifaceted and complex nature of diversity in the United States, both past and present, Frederick said.
“The Diversity Certificate is an exciting and new academic option at Ohio University that students should know more about, “ Mickey Hart, the director of the LGBTA Center said. “Having an understanding of the diversity in our world can only serve students well in their careers after college.”
The OU Board of Trustees approved the certificate in the spring of 2010, Dr. Jaylynne Hutchinson, OU associate professor Cultural Studies in Education program coordinator and director of the certificate program, said.
The program involves of an interdisciplinary set of approved courses and two base courses within five areas of diversity: race/ethnicity, social class, gender, sexual orientation and disability.
Hutchinson said that it is important to have this kind of program at any institution of higher learning and the certificate not only increases knowledge about diversity, but also a student’s ability to get a job.
“In any career field, enhancing their major with a certificate in diversity studies will enhance that student's employability,” Hutchinson said. “We are all recognizing how important it is that we treat all with respect, and that in all areas of life we are now engaging with more and more diverse individuals and cultures. Hence it benefits one personally, as well as professionally.”
Frederick said he hopes that students come away informed and excited about social justice, diversity issues and will be educated about the program.
“This presentation is designed to challenge perceptions and we encourage participants to critically engage the subject matter,” Frederick said. “Our ‘take-home’ message is simple; become culturally informed and respectful of all diverse peoples and cultures.”
eb104010@ohiou.edu
