Maricopa Welcomes New Diversity Training Coordinator Rory Gilbert

As the newest member of the Employee and Organizational Learning Team, focusing on MCCCD's diversity training initiative, Rory Gilbert brings to Maricopa an unbeatable package of experience, professionalism, dedication, and, well, diversity. With an undergraduate degree in Philosophy, a graduate degree in Counseling and extensive training in human relations and diversity, Rory is well equipped to tackle the challenges of a position that had been open for a year and a half. Despite all her experience, however, Rory is sensitive to the unique aspects of a system as well established as MCCCD.

"I recognize that there is a great deal of history at Maricopa regarding diversity," Rory says, "and I want to make sure I learn about and honor all of the work that precedes me."

Rory comes to Maricopa from The National Conference for Community and Justice, a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting bias, bigotry and racism in America by promoting respect and understanding through education, advocacy and conflict resolution. She was a volunteer with NCCJ's Anytown USA program starting in 1992, and became Executive Director in 1999. In addition to the managerial work at NCCJ, she has been very active in curriculum design and implementation, community building and collaboration with educators, youth, business, government and healthcare providers.

Through her position at NCCJ, Rory has had the privilege of working collaboratively with Arizona State University's Intergroup Relations Center designing and implementing a two-semester curriculum entitled Diversity and Leadership in Social Action. The curriculum is now available for replication between colleges/universities and NCCJ regions across the country.

Prior to her time at NCCJ, Rory worked in the area of substance abuse and violence prevention with over thirty K-12 schools in the Scottsdale area. "I am accustomed to the unique cultures that exist at each educational setting and appreciate the importance of tailoring programming and approaches to fit those needs," Rory says.

With this kind of experience and respect for diversity, Rory is an excellent choice to move Maricopa forward with its diversity initiative. As she says, "I look forward to meeting with you, learning from you and finding ways that we can continue the diversity efforts at MCCCD together."

Rory Gilbert can be reached at:

Rory Gilbert
Coordinator, Employee and Organizational Learning
480.731.8211
rory.gilbert@domail.maricopa.edu

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