Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer's July Letter

July 10, 2023 - Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D.

Greetings, 

I hope this message finds you well. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion, I wanted to take this opportunity to provide you with some reflections and updates on recent initiatives.

First, I would like to acknowledge the significance of the  U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to ban the consideration of race in college admissions. In Michigan, where race-based admissions have been prohibited since 2006, we are familiar with the challenges it poses to increasing enrollment numbers for members of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.  As always, Michigan State remains committed to providing equal access to a world-class college education for our most underserved communities. 

Next, in recognition of Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Appreciation Month in Michigan, we express our deep gratitude to the Latino/a individuals who are the backbone of our agricultural industry. Their hard work and dedication help feed our communities and fuel our economy. Let us take a moment to acknowledge their immense contributions and support efforts that uplift the rights and well-being of migrant and seasonal farmworkers. I want to commend the work of MSU’s La Cosecha program and team, supporting over 150 Latino/a farmers and farmworkers throughout the state.

Additionally, I want to highlight the President’s Advisory Committee on Disability Issues, or PACDI, which recently announced bylaw updates to ensure more inclusive institutional input and timely response on matters pertaining to persons with disabilities. These updates underscore our commitment to equity and inclusion by actively engaging student, staff and faculty advocates with campus leadership that have oversight and expertise in the challenges and concerns faced by the disability community. As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, it is essential to recognize the importance of PACDI in shaping our policies and practices to create a truly inclusive environment for all. We remain committed to addressing accessibility issues and ensuring expert input guides our decision-making processes.

Furthermore, I am delighted to announce the launch of the Academic Search Committee Education online training for individuals serving on faculty and academic staff search committees. This tool exemplifies our commitment to building diverse and inclusive educational communities. By equipping our search committees with the knowledge and skills to consider diversity, equity and inclusion principles throughout the hiring process, we strive to recruit and retain diverse and exemplary colleagues to contribute to our academic excellence.

In July, the Office of the Executive Vice President for Administration and Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion will advance a forthcoming policy to advance the 2022-23 Short Term Workgroup on Name and Pronouns data recommendations. I thank EVPA DEI Administrator Tina Alonzo and IDI Director of Equity and Compliance Matthew J. Olovson for their leadership moving this forward.

At the end of the month, my office is excited to host the 2nd annual Summer Leadership Institute, providing a unique opportunity for senior leaders and DEI practitioners, scholars and partners to come together and enhance their personal, professional and leadership development. Along with a panel discussion and workshops, the symposium features a keynote address by author Shola Richards on “Ubuntu and Breaking Down Silos”.

Finally, I was thrilled to see many join the 3rd annual MSU Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration with its jubilant display of African American and Black history, culture, food, businesses and entertainment. It was a testament to the inclusivity and unity we strive for, and I would like to thank the program committee for their leadership in organizing an outstanding event. Related, I commend Professor Julian Chambliss for his exceptional work on Afrofuturism, and Department of African American and African Studies Chairperson and Professor Ruth Nicole Brown for creating spaces for Black feminism and belonging on our campus. Their contributions and dedication inspire us to continue fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

In conclusion, I must express my deep appreciation for your ongoing dedication and support in our collective efforts to advance diversity, equity and inclusion at Michigan State. Together, we can continue to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.

Best wishes for an enjoyable summer and Go Green!

Sincerely,

Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D. (he/him)

Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer