INTERCULTURAL AFFAIRS | To further Loyola Marymount University’s efforts to create the world we want to live in, Intercultural Affairs and the University Intercultural Council present the 2018-19 awards and grants for inclusive excellence.
“The Inclusive Excellence grants and awards programs reflect LMU’s commitment to promoting intercultural awareness, representation, and inclusion within LMU’s workplace, curriculum, or student community,” said Jennifer Abe, interim special assistant to the president for intercultural affairs. “At OIA, we are inspired by the creativity and dedication of LMU faculty and staff in helping to create a more inclusive educational experience for our students, both inside and outside of the classroom.”
Inclusive Excellence Grants identify and fund higher education research and inclusive excellence projects that help LMU achieve its mission by way of infusing diversity and interculturalism throughout the campus community. The awarded grants for the 2019-20 cycle are:
- $5,000 Research Grant: Natalie Schaal, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, to conduct a study on the effectiveness of a new peer-mentoring program which aims to strengthen mechanical engineering students’ self-efficacy, sense of belonging and motivation to persist at LMU.
- $3,000 Project Grant: Lauren Moreno, director of LGBT Student Services, to develop a program series that explores the use of digital media as a tool for storytelling and representation.
- $3,000 Project Grant: Joel Gutierrez, director of Chicano Latino Student Services, to expand the Classroom L.A. program, a multi-office program that provides students, faculty, staff the opportunity to engage in the rich cultural heritage of the various neighborhoods in Los Angeles.
Inclusive Excellence Awards recognize members of the faculty and staff, administrators, and student organizations that have enhanced inclusive excellence and contributed to a more equitable and inclusive campus environment. One award was presented this academic year, to Nicholas Rosenthal, associate professor of history, for transforming his “History of California” course to examine issues of diversity, equity, and power as well as race, class, and gender.
For more information regarding all of LMU’s efforts in promoting an inclusive and diverse community, please contact Jennifer Abe, Ph.D. at JSAbe@lmu.edu.
