East Tennessee State University prides itself on its ever-evolving diverse population of students and staff. It is also growing its drive for justice, knowledge, diversity and inclusivity.
In the past year, the university has ramped up its desire for inclusivity and diversity. One way they are highlighting that is by creating the position of Associate Dean of Equity and Inclusion in the College of Art and Design, for which Dr. Daryl A. Carter is employed as. Dr. Keith Johnson is the university’s Vice President of Equity and Inclusion and works to create an environment university-wide that embodies kindness and empathy with those from differing backgrounds.
My experience as a woman of color is often very different from my peers and their experiences. I find that Johnson City and ETSU collectively are the safe and progressive part of this geographical area, for the most part. However, like all things, there are people who break that general rule of thumb.
There tends to be a lot of people who, like much of the progressive world, seek to accept everyone. I’m so excited to be the President of the ETSU Democrats this year, and I’m very excited that on-campus organizations like mine are committing to spreading inclusivity and learning opportunities to help people be better advocates and allies, humans, friends and partners in life.
Education is the key to creating an environment that ensures there is cultural competency in relation to cultural diversity. So, a university that prides itself on research, equity and inclusivity, things ETSU does, is no better place for a culturally diverse group of students.
From the medical school to the pharmacy department, to graduate studies and undergraduates, diversity is a piece of the entire campus. There are groups- language groups and classes- and fraternities and sororities that help to broaden the diversity at ETSU.
Together, as a whole body, diversity is seen across our campus.
