Diversity

Because the business world recognizes the importance of diversity with respect to minorities and the global business environment, enhancing the diversity of its student body, faculty, and staff as well as diversity-focused programs are essential to a complete business education.

The college believes that a diverse student body, faculty, and staff are essential to the complete education of business student.  Accomplishment of diversity objectives is interwoven with objectives related to other priorities. For example, when alumnus Daryl Smith, who is the senior vice president of human resources at ESPN Inc., met with three business students at an Executive Luncheon last fall, the college was making strides with both its diversity and collaboration priorities.

“The luncheons are a great forum for discussion and interaction with the students,” says Smith. “But even more than that, I’m happy to be involved because I think it is important as a person of color that I share a message of success with students.”

The Speakers Series also provides business students an opportunity to hear from minority business leaders such as Michael Roberts, who founded The Roberts Companies. The St. Louis-based firm has wide-ranging ownership interests, including telecommunications, real estate, consulting, aviation, and television.

Other diversity-focused programs include the Vasey Academy, a program that helps minority students learn about careers in business, and student-organized activities, such as the Diversity Conference. “I am strongly encouraged by the college’s efforts to create a more diverse atmosphere. Guest speakers who are minorities definitely influence our students’ lives and perspectives,” says Sue Yun, coordinator of student diversity programs. “I think the college will continue to strengthen its efforts with diversity, and I intend to provide leadership in that regard.”

Last Edited: 3/10/2008