PITTSBURGH, Jan. 7, 2021 – The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office and the Inclusion Council at La Roche University invite the general public to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during a Zoom event on Monday, Jan. 18 at 1 p.m.
The virtual event will feature a presentation by La Roche Professor Azlan Tajuddin, Ph.D., chair of sociology and international studies, followed by La Roche students, faculty and staff reading excerpts from Dr. King’s speeches and writings. The program also will include a candle lighting ceremony, a dance performance and a closing song. Please visit laroche.edu/MLKday to register and view a full schedule.
Sarah White, chief diversity officer and executive director for diversity, equity and inclusion, said, “Martin Luther King Jr. was a champion for equal rights and a beacon of light in the fight for racial, gender and socio-economic justice. It is critically important that we take time to reflect upon Dr. King’s commitment to equity, and consider how we each can build upon his legacy to further promote peace and justice in today’s society. While in-person MLK Day of Service opportunities may not be possible for all this year, we invite members of the greater community to join us virtually to reflect, engage and learn from one another.”
Prior to the event, the University will accept submissions from current and prospective students that reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and what it means to them. Submissions should be sent via direct message to La Roche’s Instagram and may include the following formats: short videos, written reflections, poetry, artwork, photography, and musical and dance performances. All current and deposited La Roche students who submit a reflection by Jan. 11 will be entered into a drawing to win a $50 gift card. Selected submissions may be displayed during the event and on social media. More details are available online.
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office at La Roche is committed to creating and sustaining a welcoming and inclusive environment that embraces diversity and encourages dialog across differences to increase individual intercultural competence. The office is responsible for overseeing the development of a strategic diversity and inclusion plan that draws upon partnerships with various University departments to address areas of education, training, advocacy and policy.
The office supports students through transformative experiences that enhance student learning, positively impact retention, and promote peace and justice in a constantly changing global society. Programs and services include: diversity training and workshops; leadership conferences and initiatives; student organization advising; social justice education series; cross-cultural and intergroup dialogues; and the La Roche Inclusion Council.
The La Roche Inclusion Council is comprised of staff, faculty and students who are charged with helping to advance the institution’s goals of becoming a more inclusive and equitable campus community.
For more information: diversityequityinclusion@laroche.edu.
About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 66 undergraduate programs of study, six master’s degrees and one doctoral degree, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, and health and medical sciences as well as interior design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for nearly 1,300 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.
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