The IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility) Newsletter is a monthly newsletter that is designed to curate the diversity, equity, and inclusion opportunities, resources, and initiatives that help to improve the campus climate at Loyola.
Thank you to everyone who attended the October Cura Conversations!
Session 2: Racial Harm and Microaggressions: Exploring the Gap Between Intention and Impact
Facilitated by Rhona Little and Kimberly Cook, attendees participated in thought-provoking discussions about the complex relationship between intention and impact in addressing racial microaggressions. Through small group discussions and guided reflection prompts, participants explored strategies for fostering a community of belonging at Loyola through open dialogue, accountability, and meaningful change.
Dr. Whitney Hobson and Dr. Jessica White guided participants through a series of reflections and discussions focused on strategies for managing anxiety while staying true to personal values. Attendees learned how to channel their emotions into meaningful, values-aligned actions that can make a difference.
Upcoming Cura Conversations
Post Election- Pulse Check
Friday, November 8th, 2024; 12:00-1:30PM; Sellinger VIP Lounge; Lunch Provided!
Pulse Check, happening on November 8, 2024, is a reflective and community-centered session. The session aims to assess the overall sentiment within the LUMD community in the wake of recent Cura Conversations and the post-election climate. Participants will introduce themselves, engage in a grounding activity, and adhere to community guidelines that emphasize compassionate listening, personal sharing, and staying present. The dialogue will explore past reflections from previous sessions, address current concerns, and discuss future steps for self-care and community building.
In each newsletter, the Office of Equity and Inclusion highlights individuals within Loyola who are working to make our campus an inclusive and welcoming place for all people. In this edition, we are spotlighting Melissa Lees, Director of the Women's Center; Yolopattli Hernández-Torres, Associate Professor of Spanish and Latin American Studies; and Langston McCatty, Assistant Director Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Office of Undergraduate Admission.
Melissa Lees (she/her)
Director, Women’s Center
Sexual Violence Prevention, Education and Response Coordinator.
Melissa Lees serves as the confidential advocate for students who experience sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, stalking, and bias-related incidents. In her role, she assists students by connecting them with both on-campus and off-campus resources, guiding them through the Title IX process, facilitating access to supportive measures, and providing whatever assistance is necessary for their healing journey. The Women’s Center also offers programs such as Step Up! Bystander Training and other educational initiatives.
As the Director of the Women’s Center, Melissa works with a dedicated team, including a graduate assistant, interns, and ambassadors. Together, they host three to four programs each week, aiming to create events and spaces where every student can express their authentic selves without judgment. The offerings at the Women’s Center include a mix of educational, social, service-oriented, and community-building activities. The team is passionate about connecting and collaborating with other offices and student groups on campus.
In addition, Melissa chairs Loyola's Restorative Justice and Practices Committee, serves on the Benefits and Compensation Committee, the Mental Health Task Force, and the Peace and Justice Committee. She is also a Messina Mentor, co-facilitator of a Diversity Reading Group, and a SAFE Zone facilitator. She also holds a Restorative Justice Certificate from the University of San Diego and is trained in Mental Health First Aid.
Melissa's hard work and dedication has been recognized numerous times through accolades such as:
Loyola University Maryland's AMDG Community Award
The Leading Women Award from The Daily Record
The Governor’s Service Award from the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism
The Outstanding Victim Advocate from TurnAround, Inc.
When asked what motives her passion for DEIJ work, Melissa said, “My dedication to DEIJ is rooted in my core values and a commitment to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all. At the heart of my work is a strong belief in social justice and the inherent dignity of every individual and their unique experiences. My deep empathy for others’ struggles motivates me to create inclusivity through restorative practices. By continually educating myself about social issues and historical injustices, I have enhanced my understanding and solidified my resolve to advocate for others.”
Associate Professor of Spanish and Latin American Studies
Associate Chair, Modern Languages and Literatures Department
Dr. Hernández-Torres’s academic interests are: New Spain (colonial Mexico), women’s experience, daily life in the viceregal (colonial) period, race, journalism, and religion. Dr. Hernández-Torres has published in journals in the U.S.A., Latin America, and Spain. She has refereed for journals in the U.S.A., U.K., Colombia, Spain, Ecuador, and México. She is the co-editor of the volume 48.2(2022) “Women and Her Capital(s)” in Revista de Género y Sexualidades (Michigan State U Press).
Her academic interests are reflected in the courses she teaches at Loyola University Maryland, as they focus on the experience of women and childhood(s) in different contexts. Her recent upper-level classes include From Baroque to Enlightenment: Novo-Hispanic Perspectives; Introduction to Mexican Culture: Food Studies; Spanish and Healthcare; and Introduction to Latin American and Latino Studies: Childhoods Studies.
Dr. Hernández-Torres’s contribution to the curriculum of Loyola extends to activities and talks that provide Loyola students more opportunities to learn about different cultures and the richness of Latin America and Latino communities in the U.S. Dr. Hernández-Torres enjoys bringing to campus experts on a variety of topics, some of these talks include:
First generation students experience, with the director of the Purdue Latino Center Carina Olaru
Latino Experience in the U.S. a visit by Baltimore Chef and Community Leader Carlos Raba.
Black Experience in the Spanish Caribbean, a talk with Dr. Melendez, Director of the School of Literatures, Cultures & Linguistics, University of Illinois.
Sugar skull Workshop for Day of the Dead, with Baltimore artisan, Alejandra Martínez
These talks have been sponsored with the generous support of: Center for the Humanities, Student Life, Modern Languages and Literatures Department, Latin American and Latino Studies, and the History Department.
When asked what motives her passion for DEIJ work, she said:
“My main motivation for DEI work comes from my experience as an international graduate student in the University of Illinois. I had the best professors, staff, and mentors that guided my first years in this country with respect, patience, and good-will. I want that sense of belonging for my students, and that they know I want them to succeed, and achieve the goal of higher education: happiness. In my courses, the creation of communities is central in our written and oral discussions. Most of my courses from the upper levels discuss texts from before the 1800s in what we call Latin America. I trace connections to contemporary LATAM, and with the U.S., and specifically with Baltimore. We discuss topics like race, religion perspectives, the situation of children and women, and how inequality and injustice have been prevalent in different contexts. I want students to know that their studies at Loyola are giving them tools to be like the individuals in the early modern period who fought for justice and progress for the early nations. We can learn from the past, reflect, and create knowledge that is valuable in our communities.”
Langston McCatty (he/him)
Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Office of Undergraduate Admission
As the Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Loyola’s Office of Undergraduate Admission, Langston is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for students from diverse backgrounds. His responsibilities encompass the development and execution of targeted DEI initiatives that not only aim to attract but also support students from historically underrepresented communities. He plays a crucial role in shaping admissions strategies that emphasize accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that every prospective student feels valued and encouraged to join the Loyola community.
Langston's work involves close collaboration with various departments across the university to reinforce Loyola’s dedication to cultivating an equitable campus culture. Throughout his professional journey, Langston has consistently sought to make a meaningful impact. His efforts in supporting students go beyond recruitment; he is dedicated to promoting educational equity and fostering a welcoming environment where all students can thrive. Among his notable achievements is the planning and co-hosting of the ALANA Experience, an enriching event designed specifically for accepted students that highlights the university's commitment to diversity. Additionally, Langston frequently collaborates on the development of resources and programs that enhance Loyola’s approach to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ), thereby reinforcing a culture of belonging and mutual respect within the campus community.
When asked what motives his passion for DEIJ work, Langston said:
"My passion for DEIJ work is rooted in my own experience as a black man who attended and now works within a predominantly white institution. Having navigated similar spaces as many of our students, I understand the importance of connection, representation, and support. For students of color, first-generation students, and others navigating these experiences, my goal is to ensure they feel seen, valued, and supported at every step. It’s essential to me that Loyola offers a space where all students can feel a true sense of belonging."
IDEA Resources
Below are links to resources, initiatives, support networks, and campus updates, that help to foster inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility across Loyola.
The Karson Institute's 2024 Presidential Election Watch Night Party!
In collaboration with UMBC's School of Public Policy, Short Kuts, and Mission Fit, the Karson Institute is hosting a 2024 presidential election night watch party!
This election is probably one of the most important elections of our time, and we invite you to come and join us at The Karson for food, games, music, and storytelling as we watch the results in real time. Make a plan to join us until the results come in OR until 12a, whichever comes first. The event is free and open to all!
Loyola's National First-Generation College Celebration Day
Loyola's Annual National First-Gen College Celebration is taking place on Thursday, November 7th from 6-8 PM on the President's lawn. Stop by for an evening of celebration with pizza, s'mores, music, and fun! T-shirts will go to the first students who RSVP for the event so make sure you register today!
Transgender Day of Remembrance
November 20th is the International Transgender Day of Remembrance. For the past 25 years, this has been a day to remember and honor the transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals who have lost their lives due to transphobic violence.
In honor of this day, The LGBTQ+ Experience is holding their seventh annual Trans Day of Remembrancevigil on Friday, November 15th from 3:00-4:30 p.m. outside the Humanities Building.
There will be a variety of speakers and a resource fair. Open to all members of the Loyola Community!
ACE x AMP Workshop:
Resume Building with the Rizzo Career Center
Join ALANA Services for an ACE (Academic & Career Enrichment) x AMP (ALANA Mentoring Program) Workshop on Friday, November 15th from 3-4 in the Center for Intercultural Engagement (CIE; Student Center-3rd Floor). Come out and learn about resume building with a member of the Rizzo Career Center staff, and enjoy some lunch.
Fava Chapel: Interfaith Prayer Space on Campus
The Fava Chapel is an Interfaith Prayer Space, to be used by Loyola community members of diverse faith traditions for worship and spiritual practices. The space is stocked with prayer mats, scarves, meditation labyrinth, yoga mats and Zen Meditation pillows and other religious articles. A variety of scriptures and religious literature are also available for worshippers to read and learn from.
Please note that Fava Chapel is a "shoe-free" space. Please remove shoes before entering the Chapel as a sign of respect to various faith traditions practiced in this scared space.
Loyola ID is needed to access the Chapel.
If you need more information or would like to schedule an informational tour of the space for your class, please contact: Saima Sitwat, Assistant Director of Interfaith and Ecumenical Ministry, ssitwat@loyola.edu.
EVENT
Friday Prayers for Muslim Community
We invite Loyola’s Muslim community to join us from 1:30-2:30 pm each Friday to join in Jummah (Friday Prayers).
Join us every Monday at 12:45pm at the Peace Pole (located outside Alumni Chapel) to pray for peace! The Weekly Peace Pole Prayer offers an opportunity for the Loyola community to come together and pray for a variety of issues, conflicts, and concerns going on today.
Join us for a night of storytelling and potluck, to celebrate the tradition of fasting in various faith traditions and foods related to fasting! All are welcome!
Acentra, Loyola's employee assistance program (EAP) provider, offers a robust catalog of training options, including On-Demand self-paced trainings. Please contact Human Resources at humanresources@loyola.edu or 410-617-2354 if you are interested in a topic that is not featured below. New topics are offered each semester.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Facilitated by Acentra (Virtual session)
This session will help participants identify various ways to achieve balance with personal, family, and work responsibilities. The conflicting demands of work and home can create stress that depletes the energy needed to get everything done. Participants will learn to implement techniques for being more effective and more satisfied with both their home and work lives.
Facilitated by Acentra (Virtual session)
Without understanding the physical stress response, it can be difficult to develop healthy coping strategies to tackle stress effectively, causing a build-up of stress hormones in the mind and body, which leads to significant health issues, such as burnout and depression. *This topic is also available On Demand, see below.
Loyola is host to a variety of trainings, activities, and events throughout the year, many of which foster engagement and open dialogue surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. Below are upcoming events taking place across campus.
BSA Presents their Annual Family Feud Event on November 4th at 7pm! Please join us for a night filled with entertainment as we play a parody version of the popular game show "Family Feud". Students will also be allowed to form teams to play!
Are you looking for someone to watch the Election Results with? Well look no fuuther, we're hosting an Election Results Watch Party, and we want YOU there. We'll be around until the results are posted, and ALL are invited. We'll have snacks and drinks, so pull up!
Join Campus Ministry and CCSJ on Wednesdays from 9-11am for Cohn Hall Café! Enjoy cozy mornings in the Cohn Hall common space with friends, chat with our staff, or grab and go. Come to enter our weekly lottery and win a fun prize. There will be coffee, tea, and hot chocolates every Wednesday. Donuts and snacks on select days. All are welcome!
Get your flu vaccine and updated Covid booster on campus! Open to students, faculty, and staff. Most insurance is accepted or $20 without insurance payable to Student Health Services.
Join Spectrum, ALANA, and the office of LGBTQ+ students in the CIE to destress and talk about the upcoming presidential election. With comfort foods and good vibes let us come together to decompress during this time.
Anxiety Toolbox focuses on helping you understand anxiety symptoms and build skills to manage these symptoms. The sessions include modules dedicated to: (1) understanding anxiety, (2) introducing a method for slowing down and disentangling the experience of anxiety, and (3) developing alternative responses to anxiety. By the end of the workshop, you will have your own individualized plan for managing anxiety.
All Rhythm but None of the Blues: Black Music, Black Women and the De-Mythologizing of Post-Racial America - The 2024 Phi Beta Kappa Visiting Scholar Lecture Presented by Tammy Kernodle
As part of Phi Beta Kappa's ongoing visiting scholar program, Loyola will host Tammy Kernodle as she addresses topics in race, gender, and pop culture. This year's title is "All Rhythm but None of the Blues: Black Music, Black Women and the De-Mythologizing of Post-Racial America"
Chai & Chat: A New Tradition Begins! Join us biweekly on Fridays from 2:00 - 2:30 PM (right after Jummah) for cozy vibes, warm tea, and meaningful conversations. Our first session dives into the topic of misconceptions about MSA and Islam—let’s clear the air together over a cup of chai! Come through, bring your thoughts, and be part of this new tradition. See you there!
Come on a retreat for first year students to build connections and friendships with other first years and learn more about Ignatian Spirituality!
Open to all faith traditions and backgrounds. All are welcome!
All are welcome to pop into CCSJ to listen to oral arguments taking place at the US Supreme Court. We will have free coffee and sweet treats. Stop in and stay as long as you'd like!
The Court will be considering the question: When a noncitizen's voluntary-departure period ends on a weekend or public holiday, is a motion to reopen filed the next business day sufficient to avoid the penalties for failure to depart?
Combatants for Peace and the Office of Peace and Justice will offer a catered lunch and screening of the documentary film, There is Another Way, in the Loyola Notre Dame Library Ridley Auditorium (L045) at 12:15 p.m. The screening, which is free and open to the public, will be followed by a director and activist Q&A.
Combatants for Peace is a grassroots movement of Israelis and Palestinians, working together to bring peace, equality and freedom to their homeland. Committed to joint nonviolence since their inception, they use civil resistance, education and other creative means of activism to transform systems of oppression and build a free and peaceful future from the ground up.
Think the Newlywed Game but instead of marriage contracts, it's roommate contracts! Come out and watch your favorite Area Coordinators and Messina staff members host their version of the famous game show. Any participating roommates have a chance to win massive prizes. Come out for the silly, weird, and deeply funny questions and responses.
Come join us for a day of flag football and determining which class year will be our 2024 Turkey Bowl Champions! Participants will receive a free Turkey Bowl t-shirt while supplies last in the spirit of Thanksgiving, we ask that each participant bring on canned food item to be donated to CCSJ for distribution within the Baltimore community
Hounds, we've partnered with Johns Hopkins University's Diverse Sexuality and Gender Alliance (DSAGA) to bring Loyola to their ThanksGayving! Thanksgayving is a celebration of found family around the Thanksgiving holiday. We will share a catered meal with our queer siblings at JHU and have a unique opportunity to experience queerness at another university.
Loyola is excited to welcome Kara Goucher, a three-time NCAA champion, two-time Olympian, and New York Times bestselling author as keynote speaker for the 33rd Sister Cleophas Costello Lecture. The event will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 20. at 7 p.m., with a book signing to follow. The event is free and open to the public, but advanced registration is encouraged.
Kairos, adapted from Greek to mean "God's Time," is a Christian retreat program geared toward deepening one's faith, identity, relationships, and connection to God's role in our lives. This retreat is an opportunity to find meaning in the highs and lows of your life. Kairos is a journey of the heart, mind, and soul. On the weekend, you will hear from your peers, be invited to share your own story, and discover a community of affirmation and companionship. Everyone has a story worth telling, and everyone is welcome to embark on this journey.
Loyola believes that cost should never prohibit a student from experiencing a retreat. Generous donors provide scholarships for any and all students who require support to attend a retreat. See below for Scholarship Codes. Questions? Please contact Mark Dushel at mdushel@loyola.edu.
If you would like to contribute relevant news items, events, professional development opportunities, or community updates and accomplishments, please send them to rlittle1@loyola.edu
