On Oct. 6, Penn State Worthington Scranton students, staff and faculty will join other members of the University community to kick off an ongoing University-wide initiative that brings students, faculty and staff together to show their commitment to cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment — respectful of everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, abilities, background, veteran’s status, political beliefs, and all the ways we differ.
“All In at Penn State: A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion” will begin with a public event at 7:15 p.m. Oct. 6 in front of Old Main on the University Park campus.
PSWS students will be able to watch the event being live-streamed from Old Main in the Study Learning Center's conference room -- Room 29, starting at 7:15 p.m. Students unable to be present for the live broadcast at PSWS can watch online at: allin.psu.edu/kickoffevent
The live event will include remarks from President Eric Barron and Vice Provost for Educational Equity Marcus Whitehurst, along with music from the Essence of Joy choir; remarks by faculty member Susan Russell and undergraduate student Jin Brooke; and the announcement of a new “All In” Achievement Award to recognize a Penn State student, faculty or staff member who has made a significant contribution to the yearlong celebration and whose life and work embody diversity, inclusion and equity in all of its forms.
The October kick-off event will feature a unique multi-media presentation that will be shown across the front of Old Main and will highlight Penn State’s history, reflect on ways the University can foster dialogue and respect, and ask individuals “Are you all in?” — seeking acknowledgement that diversity, inclusion and equity must continue to be among the core values that drive Penn State’s future.
The question also is meant to inspire action by community members to impact the world in positive and enduring ways through the creation of a welcoming and accepting environment.
"I encourage all members of the broader Penn State community to be part of this," said President Eric Barron. “Diversity and inclusion are part of the fabric of who we are as a University. This initiative is encouraging all members of the community to reflect on that and ‘Be who you are. Together.’ By learning from and celebrating what each of us brings to the community we will be a stronger University. I know that I learn from students, faculty and staff every day, by hearing their ideas and gaining insights from their perspectives.”
Barron said the “All In” initiative had its start in listening to students about the need to continue to build supportive, welcoming learning environments that make all of our students, faculty and staff feel a part of Penn State. “I encourage all members of the broader Penn State community to be a part of this,” he said.
Penn Staters also are invited to participate on social media both during the event and throughout the year, using the hashtag #WeAre. The event itself will be featured on the University’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and there will be an official Snapchat geofilter available on the Old Main lawn the evening of the event.
