As a scholar, teacher, and writer, I believe embracing our diverse backgrounds provides us with the opportunity to share many unique qualities that lead to understanding, perspective, respect, and appreciation to our individual and collective selves. As a person of Hispanic decent who became a first-generation college graduate, I understand others who follow similar paths. As an ally, I support those of races, genders, sexual orientations, veteran status, and generations other than my own. Let us work, learn, and grow together to make this world a better and more acceptable place.
I understand cultures as both rich in history and dynamic quality. Our cultures help carry our histories, inform us of our communities, shape our beliefs, and inform our practices. I proudly share my cultures with others and I show my appreciation for the opportunity to learn about other cultures. Let us work to respect and understand our individual cultures, but let us also be open enough to see the connections that bring us all together.
I recognize inclusion and access by seeking ways to remove barriers, improve engagement, and in understanding ways my practices can continue to grow to better serve everyone. One of my goals is to provide support, information, and assistance. My other goal is to continue to become more conscious about my own access and how to extend agency wherever possible.
I have come to discover that we all derive from various background and have experienced learning in many different ways. As a result I understand we all come from social, educational, and financial backgrounds that influence how we view or engage in our world. I encourage us to collaborate in seeking equitable solutions so we can all work better and discover better together.
Additionally, I understand our educational institutions exist as unique sites. Each of these sites have their own diverse cultures and identities. My hope is to become a teacher, mentor, learner, and member of a campus that aligns with similar perspectives and values, and one that always strives to grow in it’s support and vision for diversity and equity.