Thanks to all who were able to celebrate with us! Next time we'll take the picture earlier in the evening to catch more of our sisters before they head out.

Dr. Tatiana Benjamin was an unruly woman, who believed that radical love disrupted systems. She believed in the power of community and demonstrated that in the way she lived her life. Dr. Benjamin loved a quote attributed to an unknown author that reads, “A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart” She did so much more than that. Her love changed and continues to change lives. The world is better for having her in it.

The memorial service for Dr. Benjamin will be on February 3rd at 1:00 pm in The Union - Taylor 405.

Thanks to all that were able to come out and celebrate with us!

Announcements 

Furious Flower Poetry Center founder Joanne Gabbin to retire from JMU

New Faculty & Staff (none at this time)

Tenure & Promotion (none at this time)

Recognitions 

Please join in celebration!!! Lauren Alleyne is a 2022 recipient of the SCHEV Outstanding Faculty Award!

MLK March & Speak Out Dialogue 

Thursday, January 20, 2022  |  3:30 - 5:30 PM 

Start at Madison Statue at Varner House and end at The Union Ballroom 

This University-wide event is an opportunity to reflect on the legacy and contributions of Dr. MLK, Jr. All are invited to gather at 3:30 pm at the James Madison Statue (by Varner House) where participants will march to The Union Ballroom to conclude with a community dialogue lead by D.E.E.P. Impact Educators.

AAAD CONFERENCE  

“Voices of Race, Modes of Advocacy”

February 16 – 19 (virtual)

Click here for more information.

AYA: Black Women in Higher Education  

Tuesday, February 16, 2022  |  11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  

Sponsored by JMU’s Sisters in Session Caucus  

Centering a Black feminist/womanist epistemological theoretical framework this presentation focuses on the experience of Black women in higher education striving to flourish despite thorns of trauma designed to hinder or disrupt their professional achievement.   

Panelists: Dr. Narketta M. Sparkman-Key, HS-BCP Associate Professor, Academic Affairs Director of Faculty Diversity and Retention   Menah Pratt-Clarke, J.D., PhD Vice President for Strategic Affairs and Diversity Professor of Education  Moderator - Dr. Sofia Samatar (JMU English)

Funding credit: Access & Inclusion and the Office of the Provost. 

JMU Annual Diversity Conference

Wednesday, March 23, 2022  |  8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Festival Student and Conference Center

Details coming soon!