In January, Joshua Seguí-Rodríguez joined the University’s Student Experience division as the executive director of intercultural engagement. In this role, Joshua provides leadership to the Intercultural Collective (consisting of the Disability Cultural Center, LGBTQ Resource Center and Multicultural Affairs), and advances divisional diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives. The Peel chatted with Joshua to ask him some questions and play a game of “This or That” so you can get to know him a bit better!
Q: What motivated you to join the Orange family?
A: I was excited about working in the Intercultural Collective. In my own life, I love bringing friends and loved ones together. Building community, helping to shape spaces that center and affirm people, is complex but rewarding work.
Q: What is one thing you are looking forward to here at Syracuse University?
A: As a hobby, I make video games using the Godot game engine. I also enjoy playing board and video games. I am most looking forward to seeing an on-campus esports tournament.
Q: What does DEIA mean to you?
A: DEIA means to intentionally cultivate an environment where multiple ways of knowing and being can thrive. Stop by the Intercultural Collective in the Schine Student Center if you want to join us in that work!
Q: What do you hope to accomplish as executive director of intercultural engagement?
A: I hope to model, at Syracuse University, the kind of world I want to live in. I hope to do my part to build the sort of community I want to be a part of. I hope to help faculty, staff and students explore the skills and knowledge they need to build people-centered, accountable, conflict-embracing, restorative and loving communities.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
A: “Follow your passions.” It may seem a bit cliché, but I honestly believe that when people embrace paths that bring them joy, they will experience more success than they would have otherwise.
Lightning Round: This or That?
Football or basketball? Football
East Coast or West Coast? East Coast
Fall or spring? Spring
Apples or oranges? Oranges
Sweet or savory? Savory
Popeyes or Five Guys? Five Guys
Now that you know a bit about Joshua, help him get to know a bit about you! Be sure to say hello if you see him around campus or around the Intercultural Collective.