Striving to meet a need of the college, Sinclair has made Gwendolyn Jones the new diversity officer on campus.
“The position is a work in progress and the intent and purpose is to bring all of our diversity initiatives, projects, events and programs under one umbrella,” Jones said. “And to demonstrate that Sinclair is already involved in many diversity initiatives.”
The position will provide Jones the opportunity to collaborate and establish a greater connection among faculty, staff and students concerning diversity.
Diversity is a key aspect of the college because it is all encompassing. The new position will allow faculty, staff and students the opportunity to bridge a gap and to realize that diversity is social, not just about race, according to Jones.
Jones will start her new position July 1, and according to Mary Gaier, vice president for organizational development, Jones has the full support of Sinclair’s administration.
“At Sinclair there is a long history and desire to have this diversity position. A number of people throughout the years have championed it,” Gaier said. “President Johnson and his cabinet are in agreement that it is a very important position for the college.”
The main purpose for the new diversity position is to foster cultural competence. Gaier said that the new diversity position allows Sinclair to continue moving in the right direction.
“Cultural competence and awareness is important [for the college] because it is a way to understand and to value how we are alike and how we are different,” Gaier said.
When Jones found out she was selected to be the new diversity officer, she said she was excited. She is humbled and grateful that Sinclair trusts her to handle such a job.
But Gaier said she has never doubted Jones and her ability to do a wonderful job in her new position.
“We do trust and know that Gwen will be perfect for the job. She brings a lot of counseling skills and a deep understanding of diversity and diverse issues. She is connected to students, which is helpful,” Gaier said. “She is also well-known and respected throughout the college. The respect people have for her will serve the college well.”
Jones’ vision for the position is to get as many faculty, staff and students involved as possible. She wants to invite student input and the sharing of ideas concerning diversity on campus because “we are here to serve the students,” Jones said.
“Diversity adds to the value and richness of everything that we already do here at Sinclair,” Gaier said. “Gwen has a reputation for being fair and wise and brings a rich array of collaborating with people to this new position. We all recognize that this is an important way to move diversity forward and all these qualities will serve her well in this new position.”