Title: Assistant Director of Admission/Graduate & Adult Enrollment
Time at Marist College: 2 years
College/University attended: Savannah State University- Undergraduate; Argosy University-Graduate
Degree(s)/Field of Study: Sociology & Psychology-Undergraduate; Mental Health Counseling-Graduate
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Sister’s Striving for Excellence, New York Urban League Young Professionals, Savannah State University Alumni Association, NOBLE, Member of the Marist Diversity Webpage Committee.
Hometown/Birthplace: Gay, GA
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: African-American
What does the word “diversity” mean to you? The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance, inclusion and respect. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the cultural uniqueness of individuals, groups, communities, and societies.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College? I was raised on a farm and was the first in my immediate family to attend college. I’m always true to myself and never compromise my morals or values for others. I’m very fluid in my thinking and open to new ideas and perspectives. I have mutual respect for qualities and experiences that are different from my own and seek to learn about others. I’m constantly advocating to ways to help enhance diversity here on the on campus, by proposing innovative methods to recruiting minority students.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself. I don’t like bread! I am a smalltown, Southern girl with a weakness for city life and stilettos. I have over 100 pairs of shoes.
Any other personal information you’d like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)? I spend a considerable amount of time volunteering and giving back to the local community by implementing, coordinating and participating in local blood drives, breast cancer walks, literacy programs, soup kitchens, mediations and much more. I love helping others.
Photo: Dinner and discussion with my students at Zorona Restaurant, Poughkeepsie (Jordanian, Lebanese and Egyptian Food). This photo represents the type of activities I enjoy with my students.
Title/Position/Department at Marist College:
Visiting Assistant Professor, Political Science Department
Time at Marist College: 1.5 years
College/University attended:
Georgetown University, Keele University, University of Nottingham
Degree(s)/Field of Study: BSc Foreign Service (Asia & Africa Regional Specialization); MA International Relations (Diplomatic Law Specialization); LLM International Law (Human Rights Specialization)
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
Association for Women's Rights in Development; Canadian Political Science Association; Board Member, Building Community Bridges (Togo, West Africa)
Hometown/Birthplace: Toronto, Canada
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Caribbean decent (African, Asian and Caucasian)
What does the word “diversity” mean to you?
For me, diversity is less about a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures so much as it is about diversity of ideas and perspectives. That being said, I still find it richly rewarding interacting with persons with different ethnicities, nationalities, languages, socio-economic backgrounds and religions. According to some of my students, even though I look different than many of their other professors, as they sit in class with me that difference melts away. I am proud of that.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I try my best to promote diversity of ideas and perspectives in the classroom.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
Rather than give a bibliography of post-colonial theory (I can already hear the yawns), I would recommend reading something from the author V.S. Naipaul. Naipaul, who was born in Trinidad, West Indies, in 1932 of Hindu- Indian background, spent many years travelling throughout Asia, Africa and the Caribbean during decolonization. He has written several novels and works of non-fiction that trace the lives of persons from different cultural, racial and religious background during and after this time period. His writing style is quite accessible to scholars, students and romantics alike.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I have never lived in the same place for more than five years.
Any other personal information you’d like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
The last album that I downloaded was by Youssou N'Dour. He is a Senegalese artist who sings in French, English, Arabic and Wolof.
Hometown: Kingston, NY
Classification: Undergraduate Student
Major: Psychology, Minor: Criminal Justice
Clubs / Activities at Marist:
Black Student Union: Member since fall 2006
Appreciating Races Creating Opportunities: Member since Fall ‘06
How did you choose Marist?
I found out about Marist thru the program I was involved in at Kingston High School, the Liberty Partnership Program (LPP). Liberty would take some of the upper class to visit different colleges and Marist was one of them. If it wasn’t for Liberty I would not have known about this college. With all the other colleges we visited, Marist to me was the best one that I have visited.
What do you like the best about Marist?
I love the friendly atmosphere at Marist. It’s like a community within a community. I like the fact that there is always a helpful hand that is willing to teach you. For example, HEOP, the writing center, Career Service, etc.
What is/was your favorite class?
My favorite class was Juvenile Justice. After graduation I would like to work with teenagers who are at risk. This class gave me a taste of what kind of teenagers I would be dealing with. My main goal is to work with delinquent teenagers and try to lead them onto the right road. This class has given me a good insight of what teenagers nowadays can and might go thru and in what ways you can help them.
Where did you study abroad or intern?
With my major I am required to do two internships. The first internship I completed was during my spring semester of my junior year at the Rape Crisis Crime Victims Dept. I went through intense training and shadowing other advocates. I was taken along to hospital visits, attended court hearings, and visited the police station just in case someone needed an advocate with them while they are filing a restraining order against someone. The internship taught me to appreciate life to the fullest. I had the unique opportunity of speaking directly to crime victims. In the beginning, I was so scared to answer the Rape Crisis Hotline, which was one of my requirements, but once I became comfortable I would jump to be the first person to answer when the hotline phone rang. The feeling of helping someone is unbelievable. Even though it can be very sad, it is necessary to let your clients know that someone is out there to help them makes them feel better. I did so well that they offered me a paid position, which I obtained this semester.
The internship that I am currently in is at the Dutchess Youth CareerWorks. I help teenagers who are underprivileged, highschool drop-outs, unemployed, and possibly offenders obtain their GED, help them find jobs, and provide them with a case worker who can help them with their everyday issues. This internship I believe gave me a good insight of what I would like to do after I graduate.
What is Marist like on the weekends/what do you do for fun?
Marist on weekends is really not that exciting. Nothing really goes on on campus during the weekends so usually during this time I hang out with my friends in their townhouses. Sometimes, we go out off campus and we just make the best out of it. My friends and I also hang out with students from other schools in the area, such as SUNY New Paltz.
Title/Position/Department at Marist College: Associate Dean for Student Affairs,
Division of Student Affairs
Time at Marist College: 25 years
College/University attended: SUNY Cortland, Bachelor of Science Degree
SUNY New Paltz, Master of Professional Studies
Degree(s)/Field of Study: Bachelor's - Recreation Education, Master's - Education
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
Gillespie Forum, Chair (community organization sponsoring lectures and films on important community issues)
Morton Memorial Library and Community House, Vice President of the Board
National Association College and University Food Service, member
Marist College Campus Sustainability Advisory Committee - Co-chair
Hometown/Birthplace: Staten Island, New York City
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: American, Sephardic Jew
What does the word “diversity” mean to you?
Diversity to me means learning about or engaging in an activity that is different or completely new to me. It can be as simple as having a conversation with someone offering a different point of view or as exotic as travelling to another country with a different culture.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
The way in which I contribute to promoting diversity at Marist is by enabling and supporting students and professional colleagues, through my various contacts and resources, to further develop their ideas and activities that promote diversity for the Marist College community.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
One of the books I recently read and recommend is Among The Righteous, Lost Stories from The Holocaust's Long Reach Into Arab Lands, by Robert Satloff. The book describes everyday life between Jewish communities and their Muslim hosts and how all of that changed during The Holocaust.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
In 2006 I travelled to Peru, South America to hike through the Andes Mountains culminating with a visit to Machu Picchu.
Any other personal information you’d like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
In the last 4 years I have become an avid marathon and long distance trail runner. I enjoy many outdoors activities such as hiking, cycling and kayaking and preparing the occasional gourmet meal!
Major: Masters in Public Administration
Classification: Marist graduate student and work as a Deputy Madison County Clerk
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
Appointed to the Region 6 Advisory Committee for NYS Archives; New York State Society of Opticians; Former Madison County Historical Society Board Member, NY Ag Leadership Enhancement alumnae; Executive Board Member of the Revolutionary Trails Boy Scout Council & Troop 120 Board Member; Partnership for Community Development and PCD Small Business Development Board Member; Southern Madison County Chamber of Commerce Board Member; Chairman of the NY All-States Optometric Assistants, and multiple church and athletic organizational roles
Hometown/Birthplace: Presently resides in Hamilton, NY
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Human
What does the word “diversity” mean to you?
I visualize diversity like a valuable, precious tapestry made up of various threads of different colors, genders, sizes, individualistic shapes and abilities that are cooperative and caring and blend together to produce precious beauty, strength and wisdom, allowing flexibility and power that flows like a magic carpet and moves the universe along in a positive direction.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I hope I set an example of respect for everyone and support their right to have differing ideas and perceptions; strive to understand them and not to be judgmental. In addition, I hope I set an example that an educational endeavor is valued at any season in life, and those of all ages have much to teach each other.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
Eckhart Tolle instructs that we are all related, we are all one. To survive as a human race, we must understand this and remember this in our actions. Whatever we do affects others.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I am an idealist, but where would the world be without us?
dezClassification: Senior, Class of 2010
Major: Communication (concentration: Public Relations)
Minors: Criminal Justice & Social Work
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations: Lambda Pi Eta
Hometown/Birthplace: Bronx, New York
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Hispanic/Puerto Rican
What does the word “diversity” mean to you?
Blending different ideologies, cultures, and customs to better yourself and the community of which you are a part of. It is about collaborating different ideas and the people that come up with them to create a more complete community.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I am a very active student on campus. I have participated in ARCO, BSU, and the Communication Arts Society since freshman year. As a member of the Communication Arts Society, and the only “minority” on the e-board since my freshman year, I made sure to acknowledge ARCO, BSU, and other ethnic-defined organizations amongst my peers. I also made sure to represent the Dominican Republic on Unity Day and made tostones (fried green plantains) for participants. I am not even Dominican, but it was important to show the campus there more than Spain and Costa Rica exist. Currently, I am president of the club, and I am encouraging more males and students of color to join.
Probably my greatest, and simplest, contribution to Marist College diversity is the way I do not limit myself. I have participated in SGA; I attend networking events; I am what I like to call “a part-time Ambassador for the Admissions Office;” and I have friends of various ethnicities. I enjoy talking about my culture and learning those of others. Just recently, I taught one of my housemates about Puerto Rican dishes and the Boricua jargon.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
I would definitely recommend people attend lectures available to us on campus. I learned so much by sitting in the lecture led by Dr. Mark Naison. He came to speak about the birth of hip-hop and the way things really were in the Bronx from the 1930s to the present. I was born and raised in the Bronx and didn’t even know half the things he taught us. He was also accompanied by Alan Jones, author of The Rat That Got Away: A Bronx Memoir. I am interested in reading the book, and based on the lecture, I recommend it already. It’s a great way to understand people from my hometown and break down stereotypes that Bronx people, and anyone else from the “ghettos”, are destined to fail.
Please provide one interesting fact about yourself.
Whenever I am asked this question, I give the same answer: I once had a crocodile as a pet. Bizarre, but interesting and true. Between the ages of 7 and 12, I lived across the street from the Bronx Zoo in a basement apartment. It became routine for my mother to shelter the animals we found in our yard. Once, in a black garbage bag, we discovered a litter of puppies. We also found numerous turtles over time, and one day ended up with a crocodile. She raised the scary creature until it reached three feet in lenght. We then called the zoo to pick it up. The Bronx Zoo was used to our calls at this point because my mom would nurse the animals until they were retrieved. No humans or other pets were harmed in the duration of the crocodile’s stay!
Any other personal information you’d like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
I have one younger sister and a cousin who I strongly mentor, and I am always willing to help my peers with academic and professional advice. I also love love love soul food, pasta, and Spanish food.
Classification: Freshman Student
Major: Business Administration, concentration in Finance
Hometown/Birthplace: Poughkeepsie, New York
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: African American
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
To me the word “diversity” means going somewhere and having the ability to see people of different cultures, races, creeds and sexual orientation. When I think of the word diversity I think of America: the worlds “melting pot.”
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
Although the most obvious answer would be that because I am African-American I contribute to diversity at Marist; but I believe that it goes deeper than that. The way I think and the things I do is mostly likely different from many others and that is how I think I would contribute to diversity at Marist.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sing” by Maya Angelou; “In Search of our Roots” by Henry Louis Gates; “Racial Matters” by Cornell West; “Stand” a documentary by Tavis Smiley; “African American Lives 1&2” by Henry Louis Gates; Jet, Essence and Ebony magazine; “Letter from Birmingham Jail” by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Please provide an interesting fact about yourself.
I love and draw much of my strength the history behind the African-American cause and struggle in America. When I learn about it, it gives me strength and provides me with a deeper appreciation for the opportunities I have today.
Position at Marist College:
Assistant Director, Institutional Research and Planning
Length of Service: 1 month
University attended/Degree: Peking University, Beijing, China
Teachers College, Columbia University, NY
Degree(s)/Field of Study:
B.A., International Economics and Trade
M.A., Economics and Education
Ph.D. Candidate, Economics and Education
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
Comparative and International Education Society,
Overseas Chinese Association of Institutional Research
Hometown/Birthplace: Hebei Province, P. R. China
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Asian
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
To me, diversity means that people live and work respectfully together and benefit from one another's wisdom and experiences. Each individual is unique; we should be willing to be open-minded and appreciate different cultural beliefs and values.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
There are very few Chinese folks at Marist College and I am one of them. I believe my ethnic and cultural background makes me unique in our Marist community and adds to the diversity of Marist College. I am willing to learn from others and always open to share my ideas and thoughts. In addition, as China's influence on the world economy continues to grow and it is playing a more important role, China becomes more open to the world than ever. For people who would like to discover China--its culture and its language, or would like to travel to China, I am more than happy to offer some help.
Please provide one interesting fact about yourself.
When translated into English, my name means "Stone & Rock". Many friends often think I have a really "hard" male name.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
My husband and I currently live in Wappingers Falls, NY. We have a lovely, happy one-year-old son Alex. I love to try all kinds of food from different countries, but my favorite is still Chinese food (luckily we can find some authentic Chinese food in NYC). I like photography, traveling, dancing, and playing table tennis.
Classification: Alumni May 2009
Major: Communications/ Journalism Minor: Studio Art
Hometown/Birthplace: Queens, New York
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: African American/ Hispanic- Puerto Rican
What does the word “diversity” mean to you?
A group of unique people coming together to learn about everything that is different from what they have seen growing up
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I went to many of the diverse events at Marist, I made myself known and I got to know people I normally would not get to see back home, I was a part of ARCO (Appreciating Races Creating Opportunities) and BSU (The Black Student Union), where I served as the treasure for 2 years, in both of these clubs we tried to advertise them as not being “just a minority” will get you in, but a person who has views and wants to learn. I also studied abroad in London for a semester, and I promote going abroad strongly, because it is an opportunity that many City students do not get to see often.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
Two books, the first being Bill Cosby’s “Come on People”, I am recommending this book, not because I like, but because of what it states. Bill Cosby in the book claims that “we”, the black communities need to get our act together. The book to me seems to be based more so on the myths about what goes on in black communities, and I feel everyone should read the book, just to see how wrong he is and what it is we can possibly do to change our communities.
The second book is Sista Souljah’s prequel book Midnight. I am recommending this book because it shows diversity, because it is the story of a young man, born into wealth in the Sudan. Just a boy, he had to leave his father and his wealth behind and flee his country with his pregnant mother and make a life on the mean streets of New York. He has to navigate though violence, drugs and sex while maintaining his dignity and devotion to his family, his religion and to himself. It shows how one man has be raised to cherish the women in his life and it also shows how a man can fall in love with someone outside of his race, in this case a Japanese woman who is an artist and speaks five different languages.
Please provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I like to read and have quite the collection of books, and I one day want to publish a book or two.
Any other personal information you’d like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
I am the oldest daughter of 4, in the age range of me being 22 with my younger sister at 11. I also have a two year old nephew and a 7 month old niece.
Music to me is my therapy; it helps to get me ready, before an interview or exam, and helps to calm my nerves. My music collection is very diverse, from Sugarland (Country duo group) to Aventura (a Bachata music group) to anything R&B and Hip-Hop and some Rap.
My hobbies would be reading books and cooking. Books help to expand my vocabulary and my view on the world and cooking food helps to expand my taste buds, and allows me to experiment with different recipes. I really no longer have a favorite food; I like every type of food, from Spanish cooking to Thai cooking, it all is wonderful and uses different spices from each culture and not only gives me a new view on the culture, but it also opens and helps to expand my taste buds.
Position at Marist College:
Assistant Director of Admission, Graduate & Adult Enrollment
Length of Service: 18 months
University attended/Degree:
Austin College, Sherman, TX
Degree(s)/Field of Study: B.A. Philosophy
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
• Graduate Fairs Coordinator for New York Graduate Admissions Professionals (NYGAP)
• Member of National Association of Graduate Admission Professionals (NAGAP)
• Member of P.E.O. International, a philanthropic organization which promotes educational opportunities for women
Hometown/Birthplace: Cedar Rapids, IA
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: German (first generation American on father's side)
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
To me, diversity is tied into the traditions and core beliefs that make up a person's personality and identity, more than just his or her appearance.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
Many of my core values make me unique in the context of our campus community, especially among my age group. I have a strong commitment to simple living: eating local and vegetarian, not having a television, not utilizing many of the available vaccines, as well as gardening and canning/freezing produce for the winter. As someone who works in the admission office, I have a particular interest in aiding and encouraging our international student population, which helps to build a more diverse community of students.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
My husband and I hope to someday own a bed and breakfast which will appeal to agritourists and include a CSA (community supported agriculture - farming that is supported by a community of members who have a share in the risk and the bounty of the harvest), chickens, and dairy cows.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
I am the oldest of seven children and the only girl. My family lives in Iowa, where I grew up, and Texas. My husband and I moved to the Hudson Valley in 2007 so he could attend the Culinary Institute of America, and we love it here! We have a dog, Pip, and are expecting our first child at the end of August.
Major: English with a Jewish Studies minor
Hometown/Birthplace: Westwood, NJ
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: White
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
Diversity is the representation of different cultures, ethnicities, religions and beliefs in a group of people.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
There are very few atheists on campus and I am one of them. I try to educate other students about atheism and what it means to be an atheist; I try to break pre-conceived notions about atheists and gain acceptance by what is largely a religious student population.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
Bread Givers by Anzia Yezierska: A really great book about Jewish life in New York City in the early 1900's.
Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc: An interesting true story following the lives of several young people struggling to get by in the Bronx.
Please provide an interesting fact about yourself.
I'm really interested in the Holocaust. I find it extremely sad that Holocaust survivors are getting older and that soon there won't be any left, and I'd really love to interview as many survivors as I possibly can and put all of the interviews into a book so that their amazing stories will never be forgotten.
Position at Marist College:
I'm an Associate Professor of Information Systems, for the School of Computer Science and Mathematics. I'm also the Director of the Master of Science in Information Systems, co-Director of the Master of Science in Technology Management (a joint venture with the School of Management), and a Director of Company Projects at the Center for Collaborative and On-demand Computing (CCODC).
Length of Service: 7 years
University attended/Degree:
I have a 6-year Engineering degree from University of Buenos Aires. I hold a joint MBA from Universidad del Salvador (Argentina) and Universidad de Deusto (Spain). And I received a PhD in Information Science from University at Albany, SUNY. I'm an engineer at heart.
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
I'm a member of the Association of Information Systems, a member of the Editorial Board of the Int Journal of Services Sciences, and a committee member at a number of conferences and academic institutions: ICSOFT, ICIQ, Universidad del Salvador (Buenos Aires), ITBA (Buenos Aires).
Hometown/Birthplace: I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was raised in Lomas de Zamora, a suburb twelve miles south of Buenos Aires. Twelve miles don't seem much, but for those who know Buenos Aires, it's a BIG difference.
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: I'm a typical "porteño", the name given to those born in Buenos Aires and its surroundings. My roots are Italian, like more than half of the population in Argentina, a land of immigrants. And for a number of reasons, I have ties to the British community in Buenos Aires.
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
I never thought much about diversity until we came to live in the US with our family, although I've always been interested in geography and travelling. Argentina is, for historical reasons, quite homogeneous in terms of race, culture and religion. When we got here we discovered that we were part of the patchwork of diversity that is the United States.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
Well, I try to promote South American soccer, in particular Argentinian soccer, as the best in the world. Please note that we call it football, not soccer. Seriously speaking, I am the director of a graduate program (MSIS) where 50% of its student population come from India. Also, many of the projects in which I've been involved at CCDOC have included students and peers of diverse background. And in the MSTM program, I teach a course on Global Issues in Tech Mgmt, where we take our students to visit other countries.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I‘ve always been very goal oriented, which means that for a long time I was mostly concerned with results, sometimes disregarding the journey. As age piles up on me, I've discovered that life is not only about the final score, that you have to enjoy the game. As the Spanish poet said, "caminante no hay camino, se hace camino al andar."
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
Family: I live in Delmar, NY, seven miles south of Albany, with my wife Corinne, our daughters Florencia and Maia, and our Siamese cat, Lara.
Florencia is an English major at Marist College, in her junior year.
I am a squash player, a former rugby player, and I have a passion for soccer and SCUBA diving.
Food: Un buen asado.
Music: James Taylor and Joan Manuel Serrat.
Major: Communications/Public Relations
Minor in Creative Writing
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations: Undergraduate of Admissions, Literary Arts Society, Lesbian Gay Straight Alliance
Hometown/Birthplace: Bronx, NY
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Dominican
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
Diversity is a representation of various ethnicities/cultures/religions etc. in any given organization
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
My contribution to diversity is through my ethnic background and my culture. I've brought up some Spanish food from home and had some of my friends try it and they really liked it.
Please provide an interesting fact about yourself.
I'm an only child. I love to listen (and sort of dance) to bachata and merengue but my styling is pretty eclectic so I'll pretty much listen to anything. And I absolutely love to write.
Title/Position/Department at Marist College:
Assistant Director of Admission for Graduate and Adult Enrollment
Time at Marist College: 4 years
College/University attended: Marist
Degree(s)/Field of Study: Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies with concentrations of Organizational Administration and Psychology
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations: Member of the Dutchess County Advocacy Respect Community (ARC)
Hometown/Birthplace: Harlem, New York City
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: African American
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
Diversity means dynamic, open minded, and creative. It also represents the future and is where success can be found. It is also sharing of different ideas, experiences, and cultures.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I am willing to share my ideas, thoughts, and knowledge from a unique perspective. I have learned and will continue to learn from any where I can. I am in a unique position to represent the minority on the Marist campus. I also see this position as a great opportunity to be not only a face, but a voice for the African American community. I am in the position to affect change and encourage individuals from all walks of life to strive to achieve their goals. The community that they strive to be a part of is just a stage to showcase your many talents and inspirational qualities.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I surprise myself every time I push past my limits and see that I can do anything I set my mind to. Just like anyone else can.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
I love to play chess, basketball, and lift weights. My favorite food is turkey lasagna.
Title/Position/Department at Marist College:
Lecturer, School of Global and Professional Programs
Time at Marist College:
Since September 2005 in various roles, admin, adjunct instructor and now, full-time lecturer
College/University attended: Dutchess Community College (AA), Marist College (BS), University of Phoenix (MA), and Marist College (MA)
Degree(s)/Field of Study: AA Liberal Arts, B.S. Integrative Studies, MA Organizational Management, MA Organizational Communication & Leadership
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations: Member of the following:
American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AAACE)
American Association of University Women (AAUW)
New York State Communication Association (NYSCA)
Society for Disability Studies (SDS)
Hometown/Birthplace: Philadelphia, PA
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Kalmyk Mongolian
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
For me, diversity means the unique qualities, characteristics, experiences and abilities of every individual.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I contribute to diversity at Marist College by encouraging awareness and respect for individual differences in my daily interactions with students, colleagues and through my teaching and research.
Do you have any diversity-related reading materials (books, articles, magazines, etc) that you would recommend to others?
Yes, DiversityInc magazine, a publication with articles about diversity and business, and Ability magazine, which focuses on health and disability issues. Both magazines address issues related to diversity and differences that I find interesting and educational. They each offer a free digital subscription to anyone with an .edu e-mail address. Just visit their respective web sites.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I am number seven of seven children and the only one born in the United States (in Philadelphia, on the 4th of July, but I won't tell you what year!).
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
My father was born in (what is now known as) Kalmykia, an autonomous republic of the Russian Federation where nomadic Mongolian Buddhists traveled to and settled in the mid 1600's. My mother was born in Bulgaria, and my six siblings were born in either Germany or France. The Kalmyk language (which I, and my siblings do speak) is today, considered a dying one. This is largely due to the fact that for many years, the largest Kalmyk population (in Russia) had been prohibited from speaking Kalmyk. Today, most Kalmyks in Russia speak Russian and the few in America, speak primarily English. There is no Kalmyk alphabet. The Cyrillic alphabet is used for writing in Kalmyk.
In addition to being interested in diversity, I maintain a (somewhat) diverse household. My husband is Ukrainian, and my cats are Siamese and Burmese.
Position at Marist College:
Assistant Director of Academic
Technology and e-Learning
Length of Service: 1 year
College/University attended:
Undergraduate and Master's-University of
California, Santa Barbara;
Doctorate, Ed.D.-Alliant University
Degree(s)/Field of Study:
English/Writing and Educational Technology
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
National Council of Teachers of English, California Association of Teachers of English, Women in Higher Education, Blacks in Higher Education, International Society for Technology in Education, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
Hometown/Birthplace: Oceanside, CA
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: African American
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
I cannot say that I have a deep understanding of diversity. I know how books, politicians, television, and such machines want us to define diversity but I believe that true diversity is not defined. It just is. I was taught that "good people don't come in colors, they come in actions."
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I want to be a role model for young women who strive to succeed in higher education. I try to set an example through my work and in my interactions with people on campus. I believe that being a strong role model is to come through difficulty with your head held high and your integrity intact.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I can imitate various cartoon characters and recite famous lines from 80's movies with realistic accuracy.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
I am the youngest of six who enjoys playing badminton and watching scary movies. My favorite movies of all time is "Singing in the Rain" and "Young Frankenstein."
Classification: Graduate Student
Major: MBA
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
Catholic Priest. Serve as a Parochial Vicar at Regina Coeli Church, Hyde Park
Hometown/Birthplace: Sampa, Ghana
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: African
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
For me, ‘diversity' means variety and difference, which makes up one whole entity, causing that entity to be complex and beautiful at the same time. Diversity, I would say, is "multiformity."
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
I contribute to the diversity of Marist College in many ways. First of all, as an African, the rich African cultural values and experiences would be exhibited in the College. As a Ghanaian, and having had all my education in Ghana, I have the Ghanaian learning environment as an asset. Also, my vocation as a Catholic Priest contributes to the College's diversity.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
One thing I find interesting about myself is that I am the youngest of all the Ghanaian Priests who come to study in the United States. Normally, a priest spends some few years (at least two or more), to gain some pastoral experiences as a priest before going for further studies. Only a year after my ordination on July 7, 2007, I was asked to come to study at Marist. I find it interesting and a big challenge for me as well. I work effectively when under pressure.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
Family - I am the oldest in a family of five children, two brothers and two sisters. One of my brothers serves in the military in Ghana, and the other who is the youngest, is yet to go to high school. My two sisters are married, one a petty trader and the other, a teacher.
Favorite sport - I am a Soccer fan, and play pretty good as well. I miss playing Soccer so much, since Football and Basketball are the favorite of most people here in America. I look forward to playing for the Marist men's soccer team.
Favorite foods - The traditional Ghanaian fufu dish, which is made by pounding ground corn (maize) in a wooden mortar and served with light peanut soup and bushbuck is my delicacy. Fufu is a starchy accompaniment for stews or other dishes with sauce. To eat fufu: use your right hand to tear off a bite-sized piece of the fufu, shape it into a ball, make an indentation in it, and use it to scoop up the soup or stew or sauce, or whatever you're eating. Since I can't get that ‘special' here, now I go for Shrimp Scampi.
Other - During my free time, I like to read and watch Adventure movies.
Position at Marist College:
Assistant Professor of Public Administration,
School of Management
Length of Service: 3 years
College/University attended:
Rutgers, PhD; Cornell BA, MPA
Degree(s)/Field of Study: Public Administration
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
American Society for Public Administration, Cornell Latino Alumni Association, Conference of Minority Public Administrators; La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Public Management and Social Policy.
Hometown/Birthplace: Brownsville, TX
Ethnic/Cultural Identity: Chicano/Tejano
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
In the context of higher education, I view diversity as a wealth of different cultures, histories and traditions, for which we can all learn from.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
A significant part of my research addresses issue of diversity in the public sector. Recent presentations and articles include topics such: "Race and Ethnicity as Determinants of Prison Privatization," and "Cultural Competency: Opportunities and Challenges for Public Sector Initiatives."
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
I enjoy to watch/play sports. I hope to one day participate in a student/faculty softball/flag football game at Marist.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
My wife and I met freshmen year in college and live in Westchester, NY.
Classification: 
Graduate Student
Major:
Communications and Organizational Leadership
Professional and Cultural Organizations/Affiliations:
New York State Communication Association, New York State Council on the Arts Presenters, Dutchess County Arts Council, and Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma Museum Development Committee.
Hometown/Birthplace:
Los Angeles, CA
Ethnic/Cultural Identity:
Native American - Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. Our tribe is relatively small, consisting of about 2,500 members, and originated in Ohio.
What does the word "diversity" mean to you?
Acknowledging and accepting that we are all unique with different lifestyles and cultures. We all have interesting stories to share.
How do you contribute to diversity at Marist College?
By sharing my story and educating others about my culture. I represent a culture, rich in tradition, which is not often represented at institutes of higher learning.
Provide one interesting fact about yourself.
Pursuing a Masters Degree has always been my personal goal. I applied to Marist at the age of 47, when my daughter was in her sophomore year of college. It's been challenging to be back in school, but I have enjoyed every minute. It is never too late to pursue your dream.
Any other personal information you'd like to share (family, music, favorite food, hobbies, etc.)?
I am working with other tribal members to develop a cultural museum at our headquarters that would preserve historical artifacts and share the heritage of the Eastern Shawnee. My mother resides near our tribal headquarters, where her cousin, Glenna Wallace, serves as the tribe's first female Chief. The Chief is also a retired college Dean and has been instrumental in encouraging members to pursue their education. In my spare time, I enjoy kayaking in the Hudson River with my husband, traveling to music venues with my son and his rock band, and attending my daughter's college theater productions.
