The Red and Black

Issue date: 2/4/08 Section: News

HORNE

Marking the first day of Black History Month, University faculty and graduate students gathered Friday to discuss issues of diversity at the third annual "Black Issues in Higher Education" conference.

Started in 2006 by the College of Education, the annual day-long event was intended to build community and discuss issues of diversity in higher education for faculty, staff and students, said Bettye Smith, an associate professor in the College of Education and a coordinator for the conference. "We're creating a legacy for future scholars."

"We are committed to diversity and address issues that affect students and faculty of color," said Cheryl Dozier, associate provost for the Office of Institutional Diversity.

"I am honored to be here on the first day of Black History Month," said John Taylor, keynote speaker and University of Arizona professor.

Taylor addressed educational improvements, such as the increase of the number of black faculty in leadership positions at historically white and research universities. But there are still issues of racial tension in higher education, including backlash against affirmative action and competition, he said.

"Why do minorities and people of color have to rely still on civil rights legislation to have equal opportunities?" he said. "We are still in civil rights race battles."

Taylor addressed issues of diversity. He talked about a socioeconomic divide between black groups and the lack of strong relationships between minorities at research universities. Taylor said black faculty and students must play a role in fostering those relationships.

"'The problem of the 20th century is the problem of the color line,'" Taylor said, quoting W.E.B. DuBois. "But only to America's commitment … we do what was barely possible a century ago. Who knows what is next?"

Karen Watkins, associate dean for research and external affairs, said the conference and the College of Education had an important niche to fill in the University community.

"None of us knew what we had created [when we created the conference in 2006]…we're here to mentor faculty and students to have long and diverse careers."

In panel discussions Friday afternoon, topics such as maintaining a research agenda, teaching at a research university and grant writing were addressed.

Access to resources such as networking and mentoring are important for the students in the education field, said Arthur Horne, interim dean of the College of Education.

"Mentoring is the No. 1 way to be successful in this field," he said.

Next year's conference will include topics such as the STEM grant, an educational grant meant to increase skills in science, technology, engineering and math, said Juanita Johnson-Bailey, a professor in the Institute for Women's Studies and a coordinator for the conference.

"We hope to interest other colleges with these issues."

The symbol of a fern, called an adinkra, was used on the front of the conference's programs.

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