Diversity expert Maura Cullen to give talk, Sept. 11

Maura Cullen
Cullen

Nationally renowned diversity speaker Maura Cullen will present a free and open presentation, “Taking Adversity Out of Diversity: Building Inclusive Organizations,” Sept. 11, 3-4:30 p.m. in Willard Straight Hall Theatre.

Cullen is the founder of the Diversity Student Summit, a founding faculty member of the Social Justice Training Institute and author of “35 Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say.” She received her Ph.D. in social justice and diversity education from the University of Massachusetts.

The biggest challenge in achieving the goal of diversity is fear of being judged and misunderstood, Cullen says. “This fear prevents good people from taking meaningful action. Even well-intended people cause harm and may accidentally offend or hurt another without ever knowing it. When this happens we may be tempted to try to fix it, explain it, blame it, forget it, negate it or ignore it,” she says.

At times people are so afraid of saying the “wrong” thing that they make the biggest mistake of all, which is to say nothing, she says. “Good communication is vital to explore such issues as race, gender, sexual orientation, class, disabilities, age and religion.” The presentation aims to offer effective and compassionate ways to connect.

Cullen also will offer special sessions for residential life staff, student athletes and members of the Greek system Sept. 10.

The visit is sponsored by the Student and Academic Services Diversity Council.

Media Contact

John Carberry