The Partnerships kicked off its efforts with a campuswide inaugural event on October 16, 2012.
The Partnerships launch was an an all-day gathering of Wellesley students, faculty, union and administrative staff, and alumnae. Attendees participated in hands-on activities, interactive multimedia experiences, lectures, workshops, and dialogue/networking sessions related to issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion held at locations across campus.
This inaugural event provided opportunities for all community members to learn about diversity and inclusion “competency” resources, to network and meet others who are interested in promoting equity at Wellesley, and to learn more about diversity, inclusion, and equity initiatives on campus. The event sought to create a shared understanding of a variety of ways we may all contribute to building a more equitable campus climate.
Activities and Resources
Resource Tables were stationed at various campus locations, including the Newhouse Center, Clapp Library, the Multifaith Center, Keohane Sports Center, the Stone Center, Harambee House, Slater, Admission (Weaver), Wellesley Centers for Women, the Trade Shops Building, the Science Center, and the College Club.
Workshops on topics related to diversity and inclusion at Wellesley and in the world were open for the entire campus. Mini workshops (15 minutes) on rethinking assumptions and on micro-messaging were held in the Campus Center. Longer workshops on listening and on minimizing unconscious bias were held in Alumnae Hall Ballroom.
Interactive displays and kiosks located around campus included:
- Acts of Inclusion kiosks, where attendees could contribute their ideas for making Wellesley College more inclusive.
- The Community Tree, a interactive exhibit to share ideas about projects and activities and seek partnership with others at Wellesley.
- The Inclusion Wall, a place to discover and honor past and current diversity and inclusion efforts.
- Diversity Snapshots kiosks.
Residence Hall Diversity and Inclusion Programs
House President's Council, the MAC and Diversity Committee, and the Office of Intercultural Education hosted Diversity and Inclusion programs during Res Hall Teas over three days in October.
Special Thanks
The Partnerships is grateful to President Johnson, the design team, advisory team, media relations, LTS, senior staff, faculty, union and administrative staff, and students for their partnership and hard work in making this initiative a reality.