February 24, 2021
Written by Public Relations & Communications Strategist Jill Wilson
Augustana’s Office of Advancement is teaming up with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to offer the university’s alumni the opportunity to participate in programming called “Lunch and Learn: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.”
Augustana alumni from across the nation are invited to join Assistant Dean of Students for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Willette Capers for two virtual webinars, “Introduction to Diversity” and “Understanding Bias & You.” The webinars are introductory courses that are part of a larger curriculum offered by AU, where students, staff, faculty and administrators can become graduates of a Diversity Advocate Certification program.
Capers said, “These sessions provide extended members of the Augustana family with an opportunity to get a taste of what is learned in the Diversity Advocacy courses. If you like the taste, can you imagine how amazing the full course is?”
The “Introduction to Diversity” course unpacks the meaning of diversity, equity and inclusion from a holistic approach. Participants will analyze cultural awareness, identify how diversity, equity and inclusion influence daily interactions, as well as evaluate social responsibility.
“Understanding Bias & You” is a course that touches on challenges related to intercultural interaction — how biases and lack of cultural competency influence how we see people and perceive reality. The session will explore how they impact one’s reaction toward certain groups and individuals, affecting one’s behaviors when engaging with them.
Senior Director of Alumni Engagement Joel Gackle said, “This past year was a difficult year for many. We want to provide alumni an opportunity to process and grow through challenging questions of diversity, equity and inclusion. As lifelong learners, our alumni value an opportunity to dig more deeply into these topics.”
The Offices of Advancement and Diversity are offering two opportunities to join each course this spring. The “Introduction of Diversity” courses will be offered via Zoom on Thursday, February 25, and Tuesday, March 2. The “Understanding Bias & You” sessions will take place via Zoom on Thursday, April 8, and Tuesday, April 13. All of the courses will be offered during the lunch hour from noon to 12:40 p.m. CST, and include both lecture and discussion.
For more information on Augustana’s Office of Diversity, please visit augie.edu/diversity.