Delve deep into diversity and social justice issues with our Center for Diversity & Inclusion.
Here, we celebrate the differences and recognize the similarities among all members of our campus community.
Our welcoming climate fosters cultural growth and personal development for under-represented students, mentoring for new students and meaningful connections for all students who value diversity and social justice.
The center sponsors internationally renowned speakers to engage Susquehanna and the local community in provocative dialogue that encourages mutual respect, greater understanding and positive social change.
Previous guests have included Opal Tometi of #BlackLivesMatter and Charlayne Hunter Gault, prominent Civil Rights leader.
Additionally, the center hosts a weekly Let’s Talk lunch with students, faculty and staff—we share free pizza and free ideas to build a better community!
The center houses a variety of books and films that explore diversity and social justice topics. Additionally, we are a resource for cultural/ethnic products and services. One question we encounter frequently is, “Where can I get my hair done in this town?”
Mentoring Initiative
Experienced students are available to assist first year students in transitioning to Susquehanna. Mentors provide practical assistance, such as how to navigate campus, as well as offer guidance around social life, balancing hectic schedules and more.
HAVEN
A staff-led, confidential group for the LGBTQ community.
Contact Dena Salerno at salerno@susqu.edu for details on these resources.
The center sponsors an annual Activist in Residence, who works with students to explore identity and diversity through the arts.
Previous activists have directed productions such as For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf.
The center also provides support to diversity clubs and organizations and organizes the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation and the associated week-long events.
We provide training and professional development on a variety of topics including the following:
Trainings and workshops can be tailored to meet the needs of your group. Please contact Dena Salerno at salerno@susqu.edu for details.
Hitchner Social Justice Fellowship—A student is selected each year to present a social justice related project. A $3,500 stipend and programmatic budget are awarded for this fellowship.
Conference participation—Students are eligible to attend national conferences on diversity, leadership and related topics.
Community Impact Award—Given to a student who has significantly contributed to building community at SU.
WORKING AT THE CENTER FOR DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Our staff of enthusiastic students are committed to social justice on campus and in a global context.
Each staff member designs and implements one project per semester that creatively addresses issues of identity, equality and advocacy, creating a portfolio for the year.
Students also assist in programming, workshop delivery, Activist in Residence participation and campus-wide events.
For more information, email Dena Salerno.
HONORING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
We commemorate the legacy of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. annually in a weeklong celebration including a Winter Convocation, a day of service and a chapel service that is open to the public.
Helping students who are new to this country adjust to life in the U.S. and at Susquehanna University.
Help promote awareness and understanding of cultural and sexual diversity on campus.
The university closes for some religious holidays and makes reasonable accommodations for those who wish to observe others.
TITLE IX
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education.
While often thought of as a law that applies to athletics programs, Title IX is much broader than athletics. It applies to other programs here as well, including academics and administration.
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