Message from the Conference Diversity Team

[Sandy]

As background for this discussion, here is the summary from the Diversity Team that was printed in the conference guidebook. The NCDD Listeners (#1 below) were utilized heavily, and from what I heard, they were very helpful to a lot of people.

- Sandy


The Diversity Team of NCDD 2004 would like to make conference participants aware of three processes available to you that are aimed to foster dialogue and exchange over issues of diversity and related concerns. NCDD is committed to the ideals of inclusivity, and in order to model this type of approach we invite you to make use of:

1) The Conference Community Central: This area will be in the Faculty Lounge in the Student Center. Here you can stop by and have a bite and meet with "NCDD Listeners." Our Listeners will be available during the programmed hours of the conference (and a bit later and earlier each day) and you can share any concerns you have regarding diversity or related topics or just stop by to talk about what you are feeling during the conference.

2) NCDD Art/Expression Board: NCDD views the visual arts and written communication as another way to share views and create a process of interactive and dynamic exchanges. Look for the Art/Expression Board in the entry area of the Student Center (and grab supplies from Conference Community Central). Please make this space yours, and share it with others through your expression in any form you feel moved to use.

3) NCDD Facilitation Team: This year, we've assembled a great group of volunteers who will be on call to facilitate any group of people that want to sit down and talk. We've designated Main Hall room 130 and the Fr. Woody Room in the Library (room 417) as facilitation rooms. Stop by the Conference Community Central to ask for the facilitators or just stop any conference organizer and they'll point you in our direction so we can be there to facilitate a process that you wish to engage in. Again, you can choose a quiet safe space and invite others to join you as you sit down to engage with others.

For 2004, lively and open is the key. Don't hesitate to come by our Conference Central, share through creative visual expression or engage a facilitator in issues of importance to you.