Leadership and Diversity

This spring, the Diversity Advisory Council had the privilege of collaborating with the Chancellor on the Spring Leadership Breakfast. On March 20, 2008, Dr. Steve Robbins presented to the Maricopa Community at Glendale Community College on Leadership and Diversity.

Dr. Robbins used a range of provocative and entertaining strategies to challenge us to think more deeply about the notion of diversity and inclusiveness. His core theme was "Unintentional Intolerance," the unconscious words and behaviors that we use that marginalize some and validate others.

Dr. Robbins explained that we are all influenced by the messages we receive every day from the people around us and the media, and that unless we are mindful of our behaviors, we are likely to perpetuate these messages in our way of being.

Dr. Robbins also spoke about different approaches to diversity work, differentiating a social justice model based on correcting past wrongs and promoting equity and a problem solving model that looked at the value-added of having different perspectives and experiences on a team. He emphasized that both models have a place and in fact often coincide.

In the afternoon, Dr. Robbins provided a presentation specifically designed for faculty, and in the evening the Chancellor hosted a reception with CEC, the Chancellor's Community Advisory Councils and members of the Diversity Advisory Council. This small informal gathering allowed for some very thoughtful conversation.

If you did not have the opportunity to attend any of these events, Dr. Robbins presentations at the leadership breakfast and in the afternoon were recorded. Please contact Eve Johnson to borrow the morning DVD and Rory Gilbert regarding information on the afternoon taping.