Defining Diversity
Sponsored by the International Beliefs and Values Institute in collaboration with the Office of International Programs, the Orientation Office, the Madison Art Collection, and the Office of the Special Assistant for Diversity
Diversity as a concept is ripe for critical reflection. For many of us, the term “diversity” evokes complex and powerful reactions to notions of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and more. But diversity may also imply new ways of living, of interacting with one another and the environment, of taking action in the world at local and global scales, that both amplify and go beyond these familiar categories of difference.
We asked residents of Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, and JMU faculty, staff and students to express their reactions to the concept and practice of diversity (View Original Call ). And we heard from many and in many different forms. Much thanks to all people who submitted projects – they were impressive and insightful.
Judging committees had the very difficult task of selecting three entries in each category to receive awards, and they are as follows:
Essays:
1st place: Cathleen Cher Chen of JMU
2nd place: Joseph D. Rudmin of CISAT/JMU
3rd place: James G.T. Fairfield of Singers Glen
Art
1st place: Christina Blough of Harrisonburg High School for “Face of Diversity” painting
2nd place: Lisa Malachowski of James Madison University for original song “One and the Same”
3rd place: Erika Rose of James Madison University for graphic design Diversity poster
Photo Essay Entries
1st place: Stephen Lambert & ESOL Career Development Academy of JMU for “One Ocean: Many Shores”
2nd place: Madison Equality of JMU for “Ken-dred Spirits”
3rd place: Alan Eisenman of JMU for “Is this diversity?”
Video
TIED FOR 1st: Andrew Bryan & Dr. Marie Manning of JMU for “Through Zack’s Eyes”
and Tiffany Lewis & Anthony Jacoway of JMU for “Diversity: Light through a Dark Cloud”
3rd place: Jake Duvall-Early of Spotswood High School for “Through Rose-colored Glasses”
We would also like to thank the following individuals who served on our judging committees for their time, expertise, and thoughtful debates about the projects:
Michelle Borzino
Pete Bsumek
Liam Buckley
Kai Degner
Miriam Dickler
David Ehrenpreis
Steve Grande
Christine Hillgrove
Kate Kessler
Thomas Lavenir
Fletcher Linder
Nicole Martorana
Lorie Merrow
Michelle Moreau
Andy Perrine
Colin Sarsfield
Alex Sirney
Felix Wang
Colleen Wilhelm
