Four years after the Center for Diversity and Inclusion first launched, the University is unveiling the first physical dedicated space on the Chicago Campus, highlighting its steadfast commitment and effort in creating a welcoming and inclusive campus.
Dr. Kahan Sablo
The Center and its team are inviting students, staff, and faculty to its grand opening from noon-1:30 p.m. CST on Feb. 7 — which also celebrates the birthday of Alfred Adler, the University’s namesake.
The event allows the Adler community to learn more about the Center and the team’s efforts to expand the areas of inclusive teaching and university wide-DEI programming and policy development and implementation — at a time when DEI initiatives are under attack in parts of the U.S.
The Center’s work includes heritage month celebrations, student and employee support and advocacy, campus climate assessment and enhancement, strategic planning, and community engagement.
“I’m hoping that people come to the Center regularly to take advantage of all of our tangible and intangible resources, ranging from snacks and hygiene products to mentoring and student advocacy, on a regular basis,” said Cat Shieh, senior DEI program manager for campus climate at the CDI.
The Center will also coordinate initiatives and workspace resources, including an informal lounge area, inaugural lending library, web conferencing space, and computer stations. Individuals of all faith traditions and spiritual practices are also encouraged to make use of the space for prayer and meditation.
Created in 2020, the Center for Diversity and Inclusion advances the institutional mission of graduating socially responsible practitioners by supporting community members on all three campuses. The current services, programs, and resources physically accessible in Chicago will be virtually available to all Vancouver and Online campuses’ community members. The CDI team plans to identify additional spaces, both virtually and in Vancouver, to expand the Center’s impact.
“The Center and its physical location at the Chicago Campus showcase the University’s unwavering commitment to DEI,” said Kahan Sablo, D.Ed., vice president for DEI. “The CDI’s opening event is not just a denotation of physical space, it is a celebration of the power of collaboration and the spirit of a community.”