Retreat brings CAHNRS community together for diversity, inclusivity strides

Group photo- DEI Retreat

A group of faculty, staff, and students gathered March 23, 2023, for the CAHNRS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee retreat, learning and discussing, via video and in person, ways to welcome and support our learning community of scholars and colleagues.

The day included a blessing and presentation from Silas Whitman, respected elder from the Nez Perce Tribe; and presentations from Sharon Mail Kanichy, Executive Assistant for WSU Tribal Relations; Kenneth Lokensgard, Co-Director of the Center for Native American Research & Collaboration; Tracy Morgan, Kalispel Tribal Extension Program Coordinator; Allen Sutton, Executive Director for the Office of Outreach and Social Justice; and Rae Olsson, program coordinator in the Entomology department.

The retreat also included a visit from CAHNRS Student Ambassador members Sandra Crook, Erick Vergara Barrios, and Grant Irey, who shared their experiences at WSU with the group.

“Thank you to all participants for being part of an important conversation and an unforgettable experience,” said Luz María Gordillo, event host and CAHNRS Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence. “This gathering will help our college move forward, infusing diversity and equity into all aspects of our community and weaving a tapestry that resonates with our mission to be inclusive and welcoming to all.”

Ambassadors trio
CAHNRS Student Ambassador members Grant Irey, Erick Vergara Barrios, and Sandra Crook share their experience as part of the retreat