News
Instroduction
Introduction On behalf of the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Multicultural Affairs (OVPDEMA) it is my pleasure to introduce you to Diversity and Inclusion News at Indiana University, a bi-monthly e-newsletter devoted to sharing programs, news, events, and more across IU’s campuses.
Each issue will provide you with insights into our work at OVPDEMA. In addition we will highlight university-wide diversity and inclusion initiatives; share exciting work taking place on IU’s seven campuses and two regional centers; feature amazing accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff; and lastly provide you with opportunities to get involved throughout the year. I invite you to share your feedback or engage in conversation. Please visit diversity.iu.edu to learn more, add subscribers, or submit a comment.
OVPDEMA Distinguished Inclusive Excellence Award
The OVPDEMA Distinguished Inclusive Excellence Award recognizes individuals who actively promote diversity and inclusive excellence, dedicating themselves to making Indiana University a diverse, multicultural academic community that serves as a model for higher education, the state of Indiana, and society at large. In September, David Hummons, former director of Community and Student Engagement, was honored with the award. “David’s impact on both Indiana University and the surrounding community during his 48-year tenure makes him more than deserving of this honor,” said James Wimbush, IU vice president for diversity, equity, and multicultural affairs; dean of The University Graduate School; and Johnson Chair for Diversity and Leadership. “David embodies the essence of this award, as he has made a lasting difference for students of all backgrounds, the campus as a whole, and members of the surrounding community throughout his remarkable career.” It is the fourth time OVPDEMA has presented the award, given to recipients who truly distinguish themselves in service of diversity and inclusion.
Black Philanthropy Circle
In 2018, 23 passionate alumni and friends of Indiana University launched the Black Philanthropy Circle, a giving circle that supports academic resources, creates scholarships, and funds initiatives to improve access to education and erase barriers to degree attainment for members of the black community. In the months following its launch, the Black Philanthropy Circle -- which works in partnership with the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs -- raised nearly $400,000 to support its mission.
In February 2019, the Indiana University Black Philanthropy Circle announced a $150,000 gift to the Mays Family Institute on Diverse Philanthropy, within the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI. Allocated over three years, the gift will further the strong relationship between the Mays Family Institute and the Black Philanthropy Circle in understanding, supporting, and advocating for philanthropic giving in historically underserved communities. We invite you to join the Indiana University Black Philanthropy Circle as a collaborator, catalyst, and partner. Email us at joycroge@indiana.edu for more information.
Community Connections
OVPDEMA places great importance on the ability to engage in outreach, both locally and nationally. We believe in empowering our IU and community partners to connect and support one another in meaningful dialogue and inclusive partnerships for positive and transformative outcomes. Community Connections is your source for educational information, resources, and activities—for all ages—designed to help you engage with your IU community around the state throughout the year. In this edition, we invite you to learn about Communication & School Partnerships transformative college readiness activities and how you can connect with your IU community this fall.
Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center’s 50th Anniversary
The 2019-2020 academic year symbolizes the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center (NMBCC) at Indiana University Bloomington. Our 50th anniversary theme: "Power, Progress, and Promise", represents the commitment of the Center to serve as a home for Black students and a resource for Black people in the broader community.
LGBTQ+ Culture Center’s 25th Anniversary Celebration
Join us on November 16 and 17, 2019. Indiana University’s LGBTQ+ Culture Center will be celebrating in grand fashion with food and festivities, a dance party, a presentation by nationally-renowned LGBTQ+ activist Shane Windmeyer, and a retirement party for the outgoing director of the LGBTQ+ Culture Center, Doug Bauder.
Potpourri of the Arts with special host MC: Bootsy Collins!
Don’t miss out on IU's African American Arts Institute presents the Potpourri of the Arts on Saturday, November 9, 2019, 7:30 p.m. at IU Auditorium featuring performances by the African American Dance Company, African American Choral Ensemble, and IU Soul Revue with special host MC Bootsy Collins! The funk pioneer, legendary bassist, and member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Bootsy Collins, will MC this exhilarating celebration of African American performance.
The audience will be on their feet for three unique performances. The African American Dance Company will share a broad range of movement and dance traditions from America and the African Diaspora, including African, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, and other cultural forms directed by Stafford C. Berry Jr. Then, hear the best of African American spirituals, gospel, and formally-composed works with the African American Choral Ensemble, directed by Raymond Wise. To complete the line-up, IU Soul Revue will perform dynamic Black popular music, including R&B, soul, funk, and contemporary music styles, directed by James Strong.
To top off the evening, all three ensembles will grace the stage together in a collaborative finale piece. Don’t miss this incredible and celebratory event.