For decades, Indiana University has been at the forefront of creating learning environments that benefit people from all backgrounds. The institution is leading the way on anti-racist work, putting words into action by building and funding initiatives that support social justice, explore issues of racial equity, and raise awareness about equality for all.
One of these efforts is the newly created Jane Jorgensen Student Leadership Internship Program. Housed within the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Multicultural Affairs (OVPDEMA), the initiative is designed to develop students into extraordinary leaders who can transform society and be recruited as top candidates for positions within the university.
“The program makes a conscious effort to look for students with a wide range of talents and skills and, more importantly, students underrepresented in leadership roles across the institution,” explains Joyce Rogers, interim executive vice president for development for the Indiana University Foundation. “The idea is to ultimately provide IU with a pool of competitive, diverse leaders for future employment and individuals who are knowledgeable about IU’s diversity and equity work."
For students, the internship program provides a unique opportunity for personal and professional development and a way to enhance their skill sets in antiracist work. As part of the program, students will be paired with mentors and gain valuable training experiences with leaders in multiple offices across the university.
“IU has a deep commitment to anti-racism. This internship program represents a key part of its work to build diverse and inclusive campus cultures and places where every individual is encouraged and embraced to do his or her best,” says Lemuel W. Watson, associate vice president for diversity, equity, and multicultural affairs.
Additional components of the Jorgensen Student Leadership Internship Program include:
- Each semester students can register for a one credit-hour course that creates space for students to discuss experiences and meet with guest speakers on a bi-monthly schedule.
- Student leaders will create, plan, and lead “Reflective Roundtable Dialogues,” open to the entire campus community, on current issues that are relevant to them.
- Student leaders will join Leadership Lectures and Socials, events that connect individuals to faculty, staff, pre-major clubs, alumni, and professionals working in students' fields of interest.
Student interns will participate in one-day workshops to coincide with the Indiana University Executive Leadership Advantage Program, and other professional development opportunities. As part of these gatherings, students will have chances to engage with a diverse group of university employees and invited community guests.
To be eligible for the internship, students must be enrolled full-time in an advanced undergraduate or graduate degree program at Indiana University Bloomington. (Full-time status equates to at least 12 credit hours for undergraduate students and at least eight credit hours for graduate and professional students.)
“Now more than ever, there is a renewed sense of urgency to support efforts that help students—especially those who are underrepresented in higher education,” states longtime philanthropist Jane Jorgensen. “Instilling students with the skills and abilities to be compassionate and constructive leaders will go a long way in addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion and to building healthy, productive communities for all.”
To complete an application for the Jane Jorgensen Student Leadership Internship Program, visit diversity.iu.edu, career resources.