Diversity training program seeks student participants

Diversity training program seeks student participantsJanuary 19, 2001Kelly Homan Rodoskikahoman@syr.edu

The developers of a training program to help students increase their diversity skills and learn ways to address diversity issues on campus and in society are seeking program participants. Cynthia Fulford, assistant director of the Center for Career Services, and Paul Buckley, associate director of the Office of Academic Achievement, have been awarded a Feinstone Grant for Multicultural Initiatives to develop Project C.O.D.E. (Coalition on Diversity and Equity). The project is aimed at encouraging students to learn about multiculturalism and the psychological effects of marginalization. Program leaders hope to heighten students’ awareness of “race-related” and other prejudicial issues; provide students with a framework in which to understand and discuss these issues; and empower students with the tools to confront racism and prejudice in life and on campus, while developing active anti-racial/prejudicial behaviors. Fulford and Buckley seek 15 participants–a cross-section of students from various backgrounds–for the project. The students, who will meet eight times every other week throughout the spring semester, will be required to be active participants in the training. Nominations may come from faculty and administrators or students may self-nominate. Interested students will be given a short interview.  “We will be looking for students who are dedicated to making a difference-both on campus and in the community-at-large,” Fulford says. “We are confident that this project will provide students with a stronger sense of themselves and others. It will also encourage their leadership and activism toward the appreciation of diversity and equity,” Buckley says. For more information on the project or to make a nomination, e-mail code@syr.edu, or contact Fulford at 443-3616 or Buckley at 443-2622. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 29.