Greetings from Interim President Lee

Greetings Seawolves,

I am very excited to bring you greetings on the occasion of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’s (DEI) first edition of the Beloved Community Newsletter. And, that we are releasing this newsletter during Latinx Heritage Month is a testament to our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and dedication to our growing Latinx community. The National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers (NCHEPM), announced the 2022 Hispanic Heritage Month Observance Theme: “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation,” which encourages us to “ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation.” Indeed, and by doing so, we are on our way to realizing our Beloved Community.

One of the first conversations that I had with Dr. Griffin-Desta upon my arrival was centered on the DEI work at SSU. I am heartened to see our steadfast commitment to initiatives that advance diversity and social justice, and educational access as described in our Strategic Plan.

Through the President’s Advisory Council (PAC) on Diversity, Equity, Campus Climate and Inclusion and the recently formed President’s Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Advisory Council, I look forward to supporting the recommendations brought to me. We have also started or expanded several annual events, including Native Fest, Black Student Success: Juneteenth Celebration, and honoring Indigenous People’s Day on October 10^th as well as acknowledging and supporting other cultural celebrations that highlights the beauty of our collective community. I am also aware of the many DEI initiatives occurring in our Schools and Departments that focuses on access, inclusion, and success.

Thus, I believe that SSU’s greatest success will come from the contributions that each one of us make, and I earnestly anticipate opportunities to begin making my own. Thank you for your shared commitment to make SSU a place where all community members feel welcomed and are able to thrive in equitable and inclusive environments in all areas of the University.

With Gratitude,

Mike Lee, Ph.D.
Interim President