First VP candidate gives presentation

The first of three candidates for the position of vice president for Inclusion and Equity gave a presentation January 20 in the Kirkhof Center.

Carmen Suarez is the chief diversity officer and associate vice provost for Student Affairs at the University of Idaho.

Suarez said the fact that Grand Valley’s Division of Inclusion and Equity is relatively new is exciting to candidates. She added that the recent awards and recognition the division received has set a high bar for achievement, but a challenge that must be met.

While Suarez said she would implement a team approach to objectives and mission, she outlined her vision for Inclusion and Equity. Steps include providing stakeholders continuing multicultural education to grow in cultural competency, growing a center of cultural advancement, and developing innovative structural initiatives for the community.

The second candidate, John Fitzgerald Gates, will give a presentation Wednesday, January 21, at 1:30 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center, room 2204. Jesse Bernal will visit campus Thursday, January 22; his presentation is set for 2:30 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room.