Diversity Session

Moderators: Yannis Yortsos, Dean of Engineering, University of Southern California and Nada Anid, Dean of Engineering and Technology, New York Institute of Technology Panel Participants: Emir Jose Macari, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities; John Slaughter, Former President, National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME); Karl Reid, Executive Director, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE); Cammy Abernathy, Dean, University of Florida; Cordelia Ontiveros, Associate Dean, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona; Liesl Folks, Dean of Engineering, University at Buffalo – SUNY; and Emily L. Allen, Dean of Engineering, California State University, Los Angeles This session explores not only the definition of diversity – that which encompasses acceptance and respect and the understanding that each individual is unique – but also the understanding of “diversity” and how one can move beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual. Given this impactful statement, the session looks at how we can ensure that our programs and their make-up are diverse. Asking questions such as: “What specific strategies do we need to deploy so that we attract a diverse student body, ensure their success and make sure we provide employers with a diverse talent pipeline?” and “Are there models of success we can borrow from one another?”