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A Commitment to Inclusion
èßäÊÓƵSupports VCIC Partnership
University News | March 3, 2025
èßäÊÓƵ University continues to advance its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society by serving as a coalition partner for the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities’ (VCIC) Diversity Dialogue Day (DDD). This impactful one-day program, set to take place on March 12, 2025, brings together high school students from across the region to engage in meaningful discussions on diversity, inclusion, and community building. 
Three èßäÊÓƵrepresentatives— Associate Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center Kelly Jackson, Director of Civic Engagement and Service Learning Bethany Smeeton, and Outreach and Access Services Librarian Kelsi Dunman—will serve as trained facilitators for the event, helping guide students through a structured curriculum designed to increase awareness of bias, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and empower young people to take action in their schools and communities.
According to VCIC, Diversity Dialogue Day provides students with the tools to recognize and challenge prejudice and intolerance, develop conflict resolution skills, and foster respect for others. Last year, more than 500 students, educators, and volunteers took part in similar forums across Virginia, with overwhelmingly positive feedback on their effectiveness in shaping school climates.
VWU’s participation in this event is one of many collaborations with VCIC. The University is also home to VCIC’s Hampton Roads office, further solidifying the institution’s role as a hub for inclusive leadership. In addition, èßäÊÓƵPresident Scott D. Miller and Batten Professor of Religious Studies and Leadership and Joan P. and Macon F. Brock, Jr. Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center Dr. Caraig Wansink have both been recognized with the VCIC Humanitarian Award, underscoring the University’s commitment to advancing diversity and equity in education and beyond.
Through partnerships like Diversity Dialogue Day, èßäÊÓƵ is proud to support initiatives that equip young people with the skills to foster understanding and positive change. Likewise, we strive to create a learning environment where every student feels valued, and VWU’s work with VCIC helps extend that mission into the broader community.