Led by members of their Inclusive Excellence (IE) team, the faculty and staff of the Walker College of Business recently shared a statement of solidarity with those suffering injustices and fighting for equality.
The Walker College of Business stands in solidarity with the Black community and with all of those who are working to eradicate systemic racism. The Walker College commits to being a safe and inclusive community that fully values, supports and respects every individual. As educators, we commit to educating ourselves and others so that we – along with our students and alumni – will be agents for positive change in society. Black lives matter. Black futures matter.
"During the past two weeks, I've watched, listened and learned from events taking place across our nation," said Walker College Acting Dean Sandra Vannoy. "While my heart is heavy with continuing examples of senseless prejudice, I have great hope for justice and meaningful change."
Dr. Vannoy said that the next step for the Walker College is to create a plan of action, and the IE team has eagerly taken up the task.
"We are heartbroken to witness continuing examples of senseless violence against our black and brown brothers and sisters," said Kelly Henson, a faculty member in the college and a member of the IE team. "Silence is not an option."
Henson is one of 11 current members. Dr. Jamie Parson, an assistant professor in the Department of Finance, Banking & Insurance, chairs the team, which aims to help students from a minority or diverse background find a community within the Walker College as well as develop a diverse campus culture throughout the college and advise administrators on diversity and inclusiveness opportunities and needs. The IE team is part of the college's Global & Civic Engagement work, which is led by Associate Dean Martin Meznar.
Walker College shares statement of solidarity, working to help eradicate systemic racism
