Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Newsletter

Thursday, April 10, 2025
April Newsletter

Hi Golden Eagles,

I’m beginning the April newsletter with a heartfelt thank you! I am thankful for the over 300 students, faculty, and staff who attended the 23 ^rd Annual Diversity Conference: Uniting Our Communities for an Inclusive Brockport. The conference began, with a powerful and positive keynote address by Reverend Ben McBride. His remarks about belonging set the tone and vibe for the day. I saw a high level of engagement by students, faculty, and staff, during the International Festival, conference workshops/presentations, and throughout the day. Such engagement will help foster a greater sense of belonging and community as SUY Brockport. It was a great day!

I want to thank the members of the Diversity Conference Planning Committee for all their hard work and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Without giving of your time, talents and treasures, this conference would not have been possible. Additionally, I extend my gratitude, to the conference co-sponsor Brockport Student Government, all the conference volunteers and presenters. The conference would not have been a success without you.

If you were not able to attend the keynote address and/or conference, please click the link “Radical Belonging” for the opening session.

Charlotte’s Tips for Building Community in Uncertain Times

At the heart of social justice lies community. Community isn’t something that simply exists—it’s something we actively build and cultivate. In times when we’re stretched thin with personal responsibilities, it can feel difficult to find the time to nurture these connections. But building community is essential for our well-being, and it’s something we can all strive to incorporate into our lives. Consider these simple ways to strengthen your community:

1. 1. Know Your Neighbors
      Do you know the people on your street, in your building, or in your office space? Or do you tend to avoid eye contact and pass by without engaging? Take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors—whether they live next door, across the hall, or even down the street.
   2. Offer Something
      Let your neighbors and friends know that you’re there for them. Whether it’s offering a cup of flour, cat-sitting, a friendly ear, or a ride to the airport—small gestures can go a long way in building trust and connection.
   3. Rely on Others
      This can be a challenge for some, especially if you were raised with the belief that asking for help is a burden. But it’s important to lean on others when you need it. Don’t hesitate to ask to borrow something, request a ride, or seek help with your kids or pets. Remember, asking for help strengthens the bonds within your community.

Interdependence is key to building community. It is through relying on one another that we create strong, lasting relationships.

FYI-Electrical Infrastructure Upgrade:

In our efforts to reduce our carbon emissions moving forward, SUNY Brockport is upgrading its electrical infrastructure. The two-year project is entering its final phase. Between June 2 and September 17, 2025, each building on the north side of campus (north of the railroad tracks) will be disconnected and then reconnected to the new electrical grid.

Crews will begin preparation for this work soon, so you will likely begin to see an increase in contractors and equipment on campus.

The current project schedule, FAQs, and tips for how to best prepare for outages are available on the Electrical Infrastructure Project webpage. Please look for weekly updates in The Daily Eagle once the project is underway.

Upcoming Events:

Brown Bag Lunch and Learn: Supporting Low Income Students
Friday, April 11, 2025
12:20 pm – 1:110 pm
Seymour Union, Room 220

Kendrick, Drake & Masculine Performance: A Talk by F.D. Signifier
Thursday, April 17, 2025
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
McCue Auditorium, Fannie Barrier Williams Liberal Arts Building

Community Conversation
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
10:00 am -11:30 am
Seymour Union Gallery

All the best,
Dr. Damita A. Davis,
Chief Diversity Officer