Annual kickoff event highlights commitment to inclusivity and belonging
The annual event encouraged Loyola faculty, staff, and leadership to recommit to inclusive excellence in the new academic year.
September 25, 2024
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The Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion celebrated the beginning of a new academic year at their Annual Kickoff Event on Thursday, September 27, with an in-person gathering on the Lake Shore Campus and a virtual option. Centered on the theme of “Equity in Action,” the event presented an opportunity for faculty and staff to recommit to the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and to work to create a culture of belonging at Loyola.
In his opening remarks, President Mark C. Reed highlighted Loyola’s institutional commitment to inclusive excellence, emphasizing that “we draw confidence and courage from our mission.” Provost Douglas W. Woods reflected on his own personal commitment to this mission and how embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion strengthens the university community in many dimensions. Lauren Schwer, director of Ignatian spirituality, led attendees in a moment of intentional pause as a reminder to uphold the Ignatian value of agere contra–the call to do what is right, even when it’s challenging.
To introduce the keynote speaker, Dominique Jordan Turner, vice president of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and chief diversity and inclusion officer, reminded the audience of the importance of both institutional and individual engagement with DEI efforts.
To move forward the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion, we need two oars: the individual oar and the institutional oar. Without both oars, we risk going in circles.
— Dominique Jordan Turner, vice president of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and chief diversity and inclusion officer
During his keynote speech, Dr. Damon Williams, a renowned expert in higher education and diversity and the author of Strategic Diversity Leadership, addressed national trends in DEI, shared models for approaching a commitment to DEI in higher education, and encouraged the audience to continue to pursue justice and equity for all Ramblers.
The event concluded with a Q&A discussion, where Loyola faculty and staff were able to ask Williams questions to better inform their engagement with the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
This annual event reaffirms Loyola’s dedication to fostering an inclusive community in support of student success. OIDEI’s Kickoff Event is part of the office’s mission to equip faculty, staff, and University leaders with tools to champion inclusive excellence such as faculty and staff affinity groups, belonging professional development series, and educational experiences. Learn more on the OIDEI website.
