Diversity Statement

As the Director of Fashion Programs, my commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is deeply intertwined with my personal and professional ethos. Teaching in a primarily Black institution has been an honor and a profound responsibility to challenge the status quo and champion a fashion education that is inclusive, accessible, and reflective of the rich tapestry of cultures, identities, and perspectives that our students represent.
 

My approach to fostering an inclusive environment is multifaceted, rooted in the belief that fashion, at its core, is a powerful medium of expression and cultural dialogue. Recognizing the historical and systemic barriers that people of color, particularly Black individuals, have faced in the fashion industry, I have been committed to hiring faculty who reflect the diversity of our student body. This is not a token gesture but a fundamental aspect of creating an educational environment where students see themselves reflected in their mentors and feel genuinely supported in their academic and personal growth.

Beyond faculty representation, I have prioritized developing and implementing workshops, courses, and experiences specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by people of color in the fashion industry. These initiatives aim to equip our students with the technical skills necessary for their craft and the critical awareness and resilience required to navigate and transform an industry that has been historically exclusive.

Our program also recognizes and celebrates the diversity of gender and sexual orientation. Support for LGBTQ+ and transgender students is paramount, as these individuals often face additional layers of discrimination and marginalization. Our commitment extends beyond mere acceptance, striving to create a space where all students feel safe, valued, and empowered to express their true selves through their work and community engagement.

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In addition to our focus on racial, ethnic, gender, and sexual orientation inclusivity, our program is deeply committed to supporting neurodivergent and disabled students, recognizing them as integral members of our diverse community. We understand that inclusion means not only recognizing different abilities but also actively working to ensure that our educational environment is accessible and accommodating to all learning styles and physical needs.

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We strive to create a learning environment that is not only physically accessible but also cognitively inclusive, recognizing the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. This includes providing various learning materials and methods, flexible teaching strategies, and personalized support to meet the diverse needs of our students. We believe that neurodiversity enriches our program, bringing unique perspectives and creativity that are invaluable to the field of fashion.

 

Acknowledging the barriers that individuals with disabilities face in the fashion industry, we are committed to breaking down these obstacles through advocacy, education, and practical support. This includes facilitating internships and employment opportunities with partners who share our commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring our students are empowered to pursue their passions and succeed in their careers.

For me, inclusion is not a static goal but a continuous journey of learning, unlearning, and relearning. It involves listening to and amplifying marginalized voices, adapting our programs to meet the evolving needs of our students, and constantly challenging ourselves to do better. My vision is for our fashion program to produce outstanding designers and compassionate, socially conscious individuals who use their talents to make the fashion industry more inclusive, equitable, and representative of the world's diversity. We can create a fashion education embodying diversity, equity, and inclusion principles through collaborative effort, empathy, and ongoing dialogue.