Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer's February letter
February 10, 2025 - Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D.
Dear Spartans,
With spring break only three weeks away, I write to share my gratitude for events past and enthusiasm for celebratory and transformative opportunities ahead!
Our campus has been busy with meaningful commemorative celebrations and programs reflecting our shared values of inclusive excellence. Among these, I was pleased to join the 21st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Unity Dinner, enjoyed the 35th annual Excellence in Diversity Equity and Inclusion Awards on Feb. 6, and inspired by the new Multicultural Center Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on Feb. 7. Additionally, I look forward to the 15th annual César E. Chávez and Dolores Huerta Commemorative Celebration on March 29. These gatherings provide invaluable opportunities for reflection, dialogue and celebration of our collective commitment to inclusion.
The spring semester also ushered in fresh leadership and energy as we welcomed newly appointed Board of Trustees members Rebecca Bahar-Cook and Mike Balow. Their guidance, partnership and perspectives are crucial to advancing our mission and strategic priorities.
As we continue to navigate the spring semester, let us embrace the spirit of inclusion, empathy and collaboration that defines our Spartan community!
Warm regards,
Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D. (he/him)
Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer
Michigan State University