DEI in OTR: The Sequel

The DEI in OTR Panel at the Annual Conference in October sparked dialogue, questions, and a desire to explore intentional ways to integrate DEI into our everyday work and programs. We are continuing and building upon the conversation with a virtual panel discussion.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

The goal of this panel discussion is for attendees to gain a greater understanding and knowledge of:

• How organizational structure and behaviors impact underrepresented communities, including policy, legislation, and culture
• Inclusive practices related to recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and supervision
• Programming that has been effective in helping community members understand the value of DEI

MEET THE MODERATOR:

Dr. LaToya Stackhouse, Dean of Students at Gordon State College  |  Dr. LaToya Stackhouse has worked in education for over twenty years, including roles in numerous areas within student and academic affairs in higher education. Her tenure at different types of institutions has provided her with a diverse range of experiences working with students, faculty, and professional staff.

MEET THE PANELISTS:

• Dr. Elizabeth De La Rosa, Coordinator of Orientation & Campus Tours at San Jacinto College  |  Dr. Liz De La Rosa has over 25 years of experience in higher education at both two- and four-year schools. She holds degrees in psychology, communications, and higher education leadership. Her passion to work in the field of diversity and inclusion is a result of her life's experiences, both personally and professionally.

• Dr. Delisa Johnson, Director of Prospective Student Programs and New Student Orientation at University of South Alabama  |  Dr. Delisa Johnson serves on NODA's Diversity & Inclusion Committee, University of South Alabama's (USA's) Cultural Awareness Collective, and USA's Orientation Advisory Council. She is a proud mentor for USA's Multicultural Leadership Center and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Incorporated. She has presented her scholarly work at regional and national conferences, as well as published work in the Advancing Women in Leadership Journal.

• Dr. Relius Johnson, Director of New Maverick Orientation at the University of Texas at Arlington  |  Dr. Relius Johnson currently serves as the Director of New Maverick Orientation at the University of Texas at Arlington, making history as the first Black Director in this role and the youngest to hold such a position. As a catalyst for positive social change, he actively engages with the complexities of identities, experiences, privileges, and ideologies to ensure that all students matter and not just belong.

• Dr. Joshua Fredenburg, President of the Circle of Change Leadership Experience  |  Dr. Fredenburg is a speaker, author, leadership consultant, and expert in personal and organizational development. He delivers powerful messages on leadership, diversity and inclusion, student success, and personal empowerment. His numerous accolades include an honorary membership from Golden Key International and recognition as a Top Leader Under 40 in South Florida.