By Jordan Harrington
EASTON – Diversity and inclusivity took center stage in Meehan as the Office of Intercultural Affairs hosted the annual Student of Color Empowerment dinner and alumni panel.
For Claudia Gonzalez, a Latinx and PRIDE co-president, the dinner served as a space where students could be themselves.
“When I came to Stonehill, I didn’t know anyone,” Gonzalez said. “But events like these made me feel like I was part of a community.”
In addition to the dinner, alumni students of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Achieving Connection and Empowerment at Stonehill Program (BACES) sponsored a student-led panel Feb. 21, where current students and alumni described their college and post-graduation experiences, creating a space to reflect on their academic and social experiences at Stonehill.
Previously, BACES held conferences but shifted this year to a dinner to allow students to feel heard, said Teddi Nguyen Lydon, director of the Intercultural Affairs department.
“We realized that post-COVID, students weren’t as interested in attending formal conferences,” Lydon said. “So, we transitioned to a dinner where people could relax, enjoy the meal, and open up about their experiences.”
Jaden Mitchell, a Black Student Union Co-President and MOSAIC Co-Coordinator, was a key contributor in arranging this year's student panel. His participation in Intercultural Affairs started in his sophomore year when he wanted to rebuild the MOSAIC dialogue group on campus.
“I hope that everyone takes something meaningful from it,” Mitchell said. “It’s not just about the dinner, but about celebrating Black History Month and shedding light on students who are making a difference on campus.”
The panel allowed students to interact with alumni from different cultures and learn about how Stonehill impacted their lives post-graduation and the different challenges they faced as students of color.
“The event provided an opportunity for students and faculty to eat together, but more importantly, it served as a celebration of their identity and self-worth,” said Lydon.
The atmosphere was complemented by the presence of BACES alumni who talked about their experiences in life after Stonehill.
Britney Savage, a BACES alumni, emphasized how these events are crucial in making students feel included and capable of succeeding.
“Coming back to these events makes me realize how important it is to create a space where students feel comfortable and supported,” Savage said.
“You have just as many opportunities as anyone else… use your voice, because people are listening,” she said.
Lydon urged students to make use of the resources and support systems that are provided by Intercultural Affairs. “Don’t hesitate to join… there’s always a welcoming group of people who will make you feel like you belong,” she said.
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