2024 Diversity Week

Rosetta Eun Ryong Lee

Rosetta Lee is a faculty member, an experienced educator, and diversity consultant whose classroom experience includes teaching science, math, technology, art, ethics, and social justice for middle school students and whose training expertise includes cross-cultural communication, identity development, implicit and unconscious bias, gender and sexuality diversity, facilitation skills, and bullying in schools. Driven toward empowering youth to make a better future for themselves and their communities, while working with adults to help create inclusive environments that foster empowerment for youth of all races, ethnic origins, genders, abilities, sexual orientations, and other identities.

Rosetta Lee serves Seattle Girls’ School in dual roles. SGS is an innovative school for Junior High School girls and nonbinary youth, aiming to empower leaders and change agents and dedicating its energies to a diverse community of students and faculty, an anti-bias mission, and an integrated curriculum.  As an outreach specialist, she designs and delivers training internally for the SGS community as well as externally for schools, nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses. She has worked with over 350 K-12 public and independent schools throughout the country, along with over 100 colleges and universities, nonprofits, businesses, and more.

Dedication to President George L. Hanbury II, Ph.D.

We stand at the threshold of NSU’s second annual diversity summit, a beacon of progress and inclusion, and it is with profound gratitude and admiration that we dedicate this momentous occasion to President George Hanbury.

President Hanbury's unwavering commitment to belonging, equity, diversity, and inclusion has illuminated the path toward more inclusive excellence at NSU. His visionary leadership has not only shaped the trajectory of our university's future but has also laid the foundation for a community where all voices are heard, valued, and celebrated.

As the driving force behind the Belonging Equity Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council (BEDI), President Hanbury's advocacy has been instrumental in fostering a culture of belonging and empowerment throughout our institution. His steadfast support, both in action and spirit, has propelled the BEDI Council forward, ensuring that its mission to cultivate and champion diversity remains at the forefront of NSU's collective consciousness.

President Hanbury's dedication to inclusivity is not merely a professional endeavor; it is a reflection of his profound commitment to justice, equity, and the inherent worth of every member of our community. Through his leadership, President Hanbury has shown us that diversity is not just a strategic priority but a fundamental pillar of NSU's identity and strength.

On this occasion, as we come together to celebrate diversity and chart the course for a more inclusive future, we extend our deepest appreciation to President Hanbury for his tireless advocacy, invaluable contributions, and unwavering service to NSU and beyond. May his legacy of leadership continue to inspire and guide us as we strive toward a future where all are welcomed, affirmed, and empowered to thrive.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Belonging Equity Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council

President George L. Hanbury's Official Welcome Address

Dean Trantalis, the Mayor of the City of Fort Lauderdale, proclaimed April 1-7, 2024, as NSU Diversity Summit Week in the City of Fort Lauderdale, urging all citizens to celebrate and promote diversity, equity, inclusivity, and belonging.

NSU invites all faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community stakeholders to register and attend our annual Summit 2024 exploring this year's theme: 'The Beauty of Unity in Diversity." Join colleagues from disciplines and professions across the university as we work together to foster connection across differences, gain new knowledge and skills, and continue to promote an inclusive campus community.

We will feature over 30 presenters from diverse backgrounds, offering invaluable insights into diversity and inclusion. All sessions will be taking place via Zoom Events Platform. All sessions will be recorded and uploaded to NSUWorks.

TO REGISTER: CLICK HERE

Here is the overview of the Summit Schedule.

Monday, Apr 1, 2024

09:15 - 10:45 AM

• 2024 Diversity Summit Kick-Off & Keynote Speaker, Rosetta Eun Ryong Lee

11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

• Building a Diverse and Collaborative Student Body: Reducing Bias and Strengthening Admissions Practices, Jessica Valenzuela, LaToya Shakes, Arkene Levy Johnston, Gesenia Sloan-Peña, Jane Cross
• Productivity for All: Accessibility in Word, PowerPoint, and Adobe PDFs, Carolyn Fitzpatrick

12:10 to 01:00 PM

• The Diversity Round Table Discussions Joins the 2024 Diversity Summit: Legislative Update and BEDI, Elizabeth Swann

01:15 to 01:45 PM

• Becoming a Disability Ally: How Graduate Students Can Support Disability Inclusion, Kelly Griffin, Regina Bothwell, Audrey Purins, Barry Nierenberg
• We're in This Together: Fostering BEDI in Applied Contexts Through Differentiated Instruction, Andreas Häberlin
• Weight Bias in Workforce, Nadia Mazinani and Nakiya Cortijo

02:00 to 02:30 PM

• Fostering Diverse Perspectives through Non-Profit work, Kelly Concanno, Franchesca D'Amore, Von Biggs

02:00 - 03:00 PM

• Advocating from an Intersectional Lens: Strategies for Inclusive Change, Patrick Jones

03:15 to 03:45 PM

• Fostering Diversity in the Classroom: How a Culturally Diverse Curriculum Can Enrich Students’ Learning Experience and Improve Their Academic Success, Nahum Jean-Louis
• Making Social Impact Through Entrepreneurship, Teshara Arthur

Wednesday, Apr 3, 2024

09:30 to 10:00 AM

• Breaking Barriers: Embracing Diversity in Suicide Prevention, Stevie Schapiro, Sitara Rambarran, Juliette Hubbard

10:15 to 11:15 AM

• Implementing BEDI Strategies for Inclusion and Belonging: An Interactive Session, Gabriela Mendez
• What Unites Us? Open and Honest Communication, Ellen Flynn, Claude E. P. Mayo

11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

• Is Generative AI a Pandora's Box? Towards the Application of GAI to Support Unity in Diversity in Higher Education, Martha M. Snyder
• NSU Resource Guide for Gender Diverse Students, Helene R Fisher, Meghana Jagarlamudi

01:05 to 02:05 PM

• Encouraging Latino Participation in Research: Culture, Language, & Strategies, Kathy Yanes Pérez
• Fostering Resilience and Sustainability: The Vital Role of BEDI, Elena P. Bastidas

02:20 to 02:50 PM

• Faculty’s Professional Development on DEIB through Book Clubs, Jung H. Hyun, Ashlei R. Petion, Isabel A. Thompson, Patrice J. Leopold
• Understanding Well-Being to Improve Quality of Life for All, D’anna Sydow, Jorgia Wilson, Barry Nierenberg, Shalynn Murphy

03:00 to 04:00 PM

• Harmony in Diversity: Transformative Narratives through Film for Peace and Inclusion, Eileen Petzold-Bradley and Alexia Georgakopoulos
• Integrating Disability and Recognizing Intersectionality in the Development of University Programs, Matthew Dietz

Join us from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. to watch the film

Snacks and drinks will be provided! 

Disclosure Statement:

The film "Critical Thinking" may contain scenes depicting violence, racial overtones, and the use of language that some viewers may find offensive or disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.

Please note that there are no obligations to view this film. The content presented in "Critical Thinking" does not reflect the opinions or views of the BEDI Advisory Council or Nova Southeastern University.

We encourage viewers to consider their comfort level with the themes portrayed in the film before choosing to watch it. Your well-being and comfort are our priority, and we respect your decision regarding whether or not to engage with this content.

Thank you for your understanding.

The movie will be shown at the following campuses:

• Davie/Ft. Lauderdale: DeSantis Room 3000
• Fort Meyers: Room 108
• Jacksonville: Room 208
• Miami: Room 126
• Orlando: Room 126
• Palm Beach: Room 114
• Puerto Rico: Room 3324
  

Join us for the screening of the film presented by the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood Film Series, "Open Dialogues: Gen QueerZ," a Freddy Rodriguez Film. This film will be shown along with a rich discussion on the young, queer experience. 

Schedule of Events

12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

CreeAtive Native American Dancers

Delve into the rich tapestry of Native American culture through the captivating art of dance. Rooted in the ancient traditions and creation stories of indigenous peoples, dance has long been an integral part of Native American heritage.

CreeAtive takes you on a journey through time, showcasing various dance styles performed at traditional Pow-wows. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats and intricate movements as our dancers not only perform but also share the profound meanings and origins behind each dance.

Join us for an immersive experience where history, culture, and art converge to celebrate the enduring spirit of Native American traditions. Witness the beauty and significance of indigenous dance forms with CreeAtive, and gain a deeper understanding of their cultural significance.

 Location: HPD Assembly Building, Room 2108 Auditorium B

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Healing Hues: An Interactive Approach to Integrate Diversity and Wellness in Academic Medicine

Join us for a transformative guided painting workshop designed to foster unity and promote wellness through the powerful medium of art. This session is dedicated to embracing diversity and nurturing wellness within our academic community.

Recognizing the vital role that wellness plays in creating a vibrant and inclusive environment, especially in academic settings, we invite you to engage in this enriching experience. Rooted in the principles of a growth mindset philosophy, our workshop aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of diversity while promoting personal well-being.

Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to a culture of inclusivity and self-care through the creative expression of art. Come paint with us and be a part of this inspiring journey toward holistic wellness and unity in academic medicine.

Location: HPD Assembly Building, Room 2108 Auditorium B

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Experience 'Microaggressions': A Sociodrama Performance for Awareness and Action:

Join us for an impactful sociodrama performance titled "Microaggressions," dedicated to shedding light on the pervasive issues of micro- and macro-aggressions that individuals encounter throughout their lives. Through this compelling production, we aim to cultivate awareness, prevention strategies, and education surrounding the effects of these harmful behaviors.

In past performances, we've received overwhelmingly positive feedback and enthusiastic audience participation, highlighting the relevance and importance of this topic. Our sociodrama delves into themes of disability, race, religion, and sexual orientation, providing a comprehensive exploration of the diverse experiences impacted by microaggressions.

Don't miss this opportunity to engage with thought-provoking storytelling and meaningful dialogue. Join us as we strive to foster understanding, empathy, and actionable change in our communities.

5:10 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

KPCOM Multicultural Fashion Show:  
Join us for a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity at NSU! Faculty, staff, and students are invited to participate in our Cultural Clothing Showcase, where a dazzling array of attire from around the world will be on display. Accompanied by captivating music, each outfit will take center stage as we share insights into its cultural significance. This event is an opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures, appreciate the beauty of diversity, and learn more about the rich tapestry of traditions within our NSU community. Don't miss out on this educational and enlightening experience!

Location: University Center Blackbox Theater

The play presented in three (3) acts, To My White Friends Who Know Me (TMWF), is a community social trust project brought to organizations, universities, and communities by the non-profit organization, Getting to We.

The play is based on the lived experience of DEI scholar and playwright, Dr. Deborah Plummer, who wrote the play intending to spark meaningful, enlightened, and forward-moving conversations around contemporary race relations.

The production is a diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging “Edutainment” program, in that it teaches multicultural living competencies, aims to sharpen our thinking, challenge our assumptions, expand our world views, enlighten and inspire each other to create a pathway toward a healthier society.

There will be two showtimes in the afternoon and evening:

2 p.m. Showtime: (in-person and Live Stream virtual options)

• Click here to register for the 2 pm show
• Click here to attend only online for the 2 pm show

7 p.m. Showtime: (only in-person)

• Click here to register for the 7 pm show 

DIVERSITY EQUITY INCLUSION BELONGING (DEIB) EDUTAINMENT

Having the competencies necessary to successfully navigate our increasingly multicultural, multiracial society is imperative in places where we work, live, and socialize. In our polarized society, our ability to shape a positive future will be determined not only by how we support, trust, and collaborate with those with whom we agree… but by how we understand, treat, and work with those with whom we disagree. Learning multicultural competencies requires unraveling complex issues, and fostering life-long learning, which is best done in community. DEIB edutainment meets these requirements. DEIB edutainment teaches multicultural living competencies through the transformative power of visual media and theater arts. It aims to sharpen our thinking, challenge our assumptions, expand our worldviews, enlighten, and inspire each other to create a society that works for everyone.

DEIB edutainment, "To My White Friends Who Know Me" expands and deepens theater’s transformative nature to enhance our shared humanity and build greater human connectivity while teaching four diversity competencies-- holding multiple realities, perspectives, and identities; moving from certainty to curiosity; marrying intention and impact; and using social privilege for mutual benefit. Essential to each performance is the post-show discussion designed to go deeper into the themes presented in each act. 

PLAYWRIGHT’S NOTE

Mistrust and fear create conflict and limit the human development of all people, shaping the imperfect world in which neighbors fear neighbors, people can’t give their best at work, public spaces are unsafe for many, and the quality of all of our lives is affected. What’s needed to move forward is social trust, a belief that we share a core identity as humans, can relate to each other without fear, and work to be better humans for each other.

I wrote To My White Friends Who Know Me to bring this message of trust and human connectivity to the widest audience possible. The play is based on my lived experience and informed by the research and frameworks I’ve created over many years as a diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) professional and scholar. I trust that you will find yourself represented in the themes of the play and am most grateful to the outstanding director and very talented cast who have brought these words to life and their message to your hearts.

As DEIB edutainment, may this play spark more meaningful, enlightened, forward-moving conversations about contemporary race relations and create a pathway toward a healthier society that turns us and them into we.

Deborah L. Plummer, PhD

ABOUT THE PLAY

ShapeA play presented in three (3) acts, To My White Friends Who Know Me is brought to organizations, universities, and communities by Getting To We, Inc., in partnership with Facing History and Ourselves and in support of Cleveland School of the Arts Theater Department. This community event, designed as diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) edutainment, brings home an engaging, instructive message without sacrificing substance. To My White Friends Who Know Me takes apart theories of human differences in practical terms leaving audiences with information and inspiration…achieving racial equity one friend at a time.

ACT I: I WISH I HAD A BLACK FRIEND, HOW DO I GET ONE?

Having cross-racial friends is far more complicated than most people imagine. At first blush, the question seems simple and almost naïve, but it is not. Historical baggage, institutional structures that embody systemic racism, racially encapsulated neighborhoods, our programmed fear of “otherness,” segregated leisure activities, and a preference for those who are most like us, are just a few of the barriers to crossing racial lines in friendship. Through engaging and often humorous dialogue, this vignette explores three themes:

• We are all, to some extent, racial isolationists. With good reason, most Americans do not have friends that cross racial lines, and our social networks remain comprised of those who share our same race.
• It takes a lot of work to obtain and maintain cross-racial friendships. However, the return on that effort is enormous, both personally and for us as a community. The nature of the benefits and the return on the social benefit for Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) and Whites are explored.
• Although all cross-racial friends give witness to racial harmony, not all of them are the kind that can support moving the mountains of racism. Five different kinds of cross-racial friendships are identified, and the rationale is provided for why only two of these kinds of friendships hold the potential to change the narrative on race relations.

ACT II: A MESSAGE FROM YOUR SAFE BLACK FRIENDS

Having White friends can be exhausting for Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) and having BIPOC friends can be challenging for Whites. This vignette explores how together we gain racial stamina and move toward more enlightened conversations about race.

Through a window into the private conversations between Black women, this vignette explores the following themes:

• Creating spaces of psychological safety at home and work where race can be discussed without fear of shaming or blaming
• Challenging assumptions and stereotypes we hold of racial groups
• Examining expressions of social privilege in our everyday lives

ACT III: TO MY WHITE FRIENDS WHO KNOW ME

Within our multiple and intersecting identities, our core identity is that of being human. To build, maintain, and nurture cross-racial relationships we have to embrace creative adjustments to our way of knowing. Through a call for commitment to being better humans for other humans, this vignette explores the following themes:

• Racial fatigue and racial stress
• Racial identity safety in the public space
• The work of solidarity and being amazing humans for each other

Day of Service - Davie/Ft. Lauderdale: April 6
On Saturday, April 6, 2024, lace up your sneakers if you want to contribute to a noble cause to "Outrun Hunger." By walking or running in the 5K, you'll help raise awareness and vital funds to provide meals for families in our community facing hunger.

Let's come together as a community, outrun hunger, and create a brighter future for everyone. If you would like to join our team or donate to this cause, click this link.

Contact the Summit Committee at bediadvisorycouncil@nova.edu. 

Find out more about Feeding South Florida and volunteer here.

Day of Service - Jacksonville
Join us for the "Walk to Defeat ALS!" ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. To find out more, contact Brooke Goehring at br461@nova.edu
Find out more about ALS here.

Day of Service - Palm Beach Campus
Join us for "Paws for a Cause: A Charity Drive for Our Furry Friends" as we rally together for a noble cause. We’re organizing a supplies and donations drive to extend our support to the dogs at Furry Friends. We welcome you to bring along used towels, toys, or any other dog-friendly items. You can drop these off in the designated box located in the NSU hallway. Monetary donations to Furry Friends are also greatly appreciated. Let’s come together to make a difference in the lives of our furry friends!” To find out more contact Gabriela Mendez at gmendez@nova.edu.

Day of Service - Tampa: April 6
Tampa Campus Service Day: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
We invite you to join the Salty Soul Foundation for the Dunedin Beach cleanup.
Location: 61 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698, United States
Find out more and register here. 

Schedule of Week Events

Schedule of Week Events

Schedule of Week Events

Schedule of Week Events

Schedule of Week Events

Schedule of Week Events

NSU History 

NSU students, faculty, and staff have collaborated on and led multiple diversity initiatives in previous years. In particular, the Office of Student Leadership and Civic Engagement, under the direction and leadership of Terry Morrow Nelson, was instrumental in hosting the earliest annual Diversity Summits at NSU from 2006 through 2012.

2020 - present

The Diversity Summit initiative is part of the BEDI Advisory Council's strategy to guide NSU toward inclusive excellence by cultivating and supporting the ongoing development and implementation of processes, procedures, and programs that promote greater belonging, equity, diversity, and inclusion throughout all aspects of the university and our communities.

The goal is to implement a strategic vision that speaks to the importance of diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging across all campuses at NSU. In addition, the BEDI Advisory Council's vision is to continue providing experiential learning summits focusing on NSU Core Values of DEI as an annual tradition at NSU across all campuses.

Inaugural Diversity Summit 2023

The BEDI Advisory Council relaunched the NSU Diversity Summit in 2023. The dedicated efforts of the Council's Learning & Development Subcommittee members made this event an inclusive experience for the NSU community. Dean Trantalis, the Mayor of the City of Fort Lauderdale, proclaimed March 15, 2023, as NSU Diversity Summit Day in the City of Fort Lauderdale, urging all citizens to celebrate and support diversity, equity, inclusivity, and belonging.

Future Summits 

The BEDI Advisory Council looks forward to fostering new BEDI initiatives and building upon the NSU tradition of having annual Diversity Summits. 

If you have questions about the Summit, please contact the organizers at BEDIAdvisoryCouncil@nova.edu.

A few lasting impressions and testimonials from the 2023 Diversity Summit. 

I thoroughly enjoyed the diversity session I attended and the speakers. I think that it is important for us as future clinicians to open our minds to these societal changes, regardless of our personal beliefs, these societal changes are occurring, and we must become comfortable with having these conversations. Thank you, Diversity Summit!
- Amara Leak, Psychology Trainee NSU

The 2023 NSU Diversity Summit was an informative and insightful event that shared various aspects of diversity with innovative perspectives on global solutions to improve the morality of humanity and cultivate a healthy culture for generations moving forward. The greatest resource on earth are human beings, so we need to work interdependently to nurture and serve each other’s best interests in love and benevolence for our greater global good.
- Roger Harriot, NSU Community

NSU is a beacon of light for diversity issues in South Florida.
- Dr. Bryan L. Champion, Professor, Public Sector Leadership at American University

An excellent thought-provoking session provided many practical tips about DEI leadership. So grateful for Mr. Thompson's keynote address.
- Anonymous

I believe that NSU has brought an amazing summit on a topic that is needed.
- Anonymous

It is crucially imperative it is to have safe spaces for difficult conversations. The significant importance of understanding America's legacy is to grasp the need to continue diversity, equity, and inclusiveness.
- Anonymous

The most useful items I learned were about gender equity and hearing the stories of young girls. I have a greater appreciation for my education and want to get more involved in the girl rising project.
- Anonymous