“We are the change: Where do we go from here?” was the main question and central theme of the fourth annual Power in Diversity Leadership Conference, held at St. Cloud State University. Students and faculty from five universities were in attendance for the conference this past weekend to build and develop leadership skills and to promote diversity and change.
The conference was held at the SCSU campus from Jan. 24-27. Students and staff in attendance included members of SCSU, Winona State University, Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Minnesota State University Moorhead, and Southwest Minnesota State University.
“There were…great speakers…[who have] been a part of great movements or organizations to change the worlds views on diversity. All in all the conference was very interesting and eye-opening, it made me want to make a difference in the world. It was a great experience that I will never forget,” Alex Thies, a graphic design freshman, said of her first conference.
The event program boasts that the conference offers opportunities for personal growth and leadership development to college students of color and underrepresented students through a variety of workshops, keynote addresses, and programs.
The event began at 6 p.m. on Jan. 24 with event registration/information and galactic bowling, where students and staff were able to meet others and have fun. A total of six keynote speakers were on hand Jan. 25-26, each speaking at separate times over two days.
The speakers included:
Tavis Smiley – a PBS talk show host and author of 16 books
C.T. Vivian – a minister, civil rights activist, and author
Cheryl Jacques – a lawyer, politician, and LGBT activist
Tricia Rose – a Brown University professor, social critic, commentator, and author
Carlos Neverez – a California State Sacramento professor, and leadership expert
Eric Thomas – a motivational speaker, author, educator, and minister
Several workshop sessions were held during the four day event, with topics like career exploration, community-building, personal relationships, managing in college, health and wellness, and more according to the event brochure. Sessions were also held for university staff and employers.
A Diversity Job and Internship Fair, along with a Graduate School Fair, were held for students who are interested in furthering their education and working with companies related to their major or interests.
Other activities included a variety show, conference socials and other entertainment.
