Paige Dalto ’24, staff writer

On Thursday, Feb. 9, LVC will host the annual Symposium on Inclusive Excellence. This event is meant to inspire dialogue between students and faculty in order to encourage community inclusivity and involvement.

The event will host a panel of speakers from varying backgrounds and careers including the CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, John Lawn, and the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Education for the Commonwealth, TaLisa Ramos-Watts.

“The symposium is a great opportunity for students and the campus community to gain a better understanding of what it means to be a part of a community that is inclusive,” said Dr. Shayani Bhattacharya, assistant professor of English and DEI Faculty Fellow. “Students will gain an understanding of power structures that are used to marginalize people.”

Most colleges encourage students to attend inclusive excellence events as a means of preparing for a professional workplace, but this undermines the importance of inclusivity as a whole. As students, all should be educated and prepared when encountering diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life.

The afternoon panels, occurring from 1 to 3:15 p.m., offer a wide variety of options for students to choose from and encourage open dialogue regarding the subject of discussion. 

The Symposium is free for all to attend, and the keynote convocation will begin at 10 a.m. in Miller Chapel. To reserve a spot, register at the link here.