As many changes take place across ETSU for the Fall 2022 semester, the values of the Multicultural Center have remained constant in their ideology. Kevin Brooks, the newly appointed director of the Mary v. Jordan Multicultural Center, is set to honor these values and carry them out through his time here at ETSU.
The search for this position was one that stemmed across the nation. Members of the Multicultural Center wanted someone who would honor their values, maintain tradition and expand opportunities for growth within the university.
Brooks previously served as an academic specialist for diversity and civic engagement in the Residential College in the Arts and Humanities at Michigan State University and has played an integral role in higher education for decades as a civic engagement practitioner, scholar and administrator.
Brooks has been in higher education for more than 20 years. He earned his doctorate and master’s degrees from Purdue University and master’s of education and bachelor’s degrees from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.
“It has been my dream to be a director of a cultural center,” said Brooks. “When I was at Purdue, the Black Cultural Center and the relationships I established at the BCC have had an incredible influence on my life and education.”
Brooks learned the importance of academic excellence, social responsibility, community engagement and cultural grounding through his presence in the BCC. So, when ETSU’s new Multicultural Center Director role came across his radar, Brooks almost instantly jumped on the opportunity.
“I saw the job description for the Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center and applied because I was drawn to the university’s commitment to improving the student experience, community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Brooks.
Brooks’ experience in the field and his commitment to the Multicultural Center Values set him apart from other candidates in many ways.
“I have worked effectively in collaborative environments to create strategies, programs, and initiatives to improve the university culture and climate through heritage teaching, intercultural dialogue, and healing circles,” said Brooks. “The goals of these efforts have been to get in alignment, strengthen a sense of belonging, build solidarity, cultivate optimal wellbeing and remove barriers to academic and personal fulfillment.”
For Brooks, liberal education, student engagement and employment empowerment is something that made ETSU home. The university’s core values align directly with his commitment to people, relationships, and excellence in order to strengthen communities.
A new director is a catalyst for the Multicultural Center, they can kickstart their plan to offer innovative programs and services that include interdisciplinary and transcultural workshops, facilitations and dialogues that promote diversity and inclusion. With such excitement in the air, this is only the begnning for Brooks’ plans and commitment to the Center and the University.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to assist with the amazing programs offered at the MCC, establish new programs and services, and develop leaders who will help advance the university, surrounding communities, region, State of Tennessee and beyond,” said Brooks.
