NMSU Hosts Trio of Diversity Talks

Diversity is in the spotlight this fall at New Mexico State University. The Black Programs Department, in conjunction with other academic departments on campus, will be hosting a special Diversity Lecture Series. According to department head Festus Addo-Yobo (see the February 2006 Desert Exposure), "The lectures will explore issues of pluralism within our society and ways in which we can be more understanding."

The series kicks off Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. in the Milton Hall Auditorium with Dr. Harold Bailey, executive director of the New Mexico Office of African American Affairs. He is a certified Diversity Trainer, a former UNM administrator and faculty member and former president of the Albuquerque NAACP. He'll speak on "Diversity Within the Educational System."

Next, speaking on Nov. 8 and 9, will be Dr. Peggy McIntosh, associate director of the Wellesley College Center for Research on Women and founder and co-director of the National S.E.E.D. (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) Project on Inclusive Curriculum. She consults with higher education institutions on creating multicultural and gender-fair curricula. She'll speak at 7 p.m. both days on "Privilege in the Classroom" in Room 194, Gerald Thomas Hall Auditorium, Room 194. McIntosh will also be conducting a number of workshops and presentations throughout the campus.

Wrapping up the series on Nov. 15 will be Tim Wise, an anti-racist writer and activist who has spoken to over 400 college campuses in 48 states. He has conducted anti-racism training for the medical industry, law enforcement officials, military, entertainment, government and industries and has been featured on "20/20," CNN, "Donahue" and ESPN. Wise's talk on "Beyond Diversity: Challenging Racism in an Age of Backlash" will be at 7 p.m. in Room 194, Gerald Thomas Hall Auditorium.

For more information on the lecture series, call 646-4208.