Today@Sam Article

Bearkats Belong Week

Feb. 2, 2022
SHSU Media Contact: Hannah Crandall

In an effort to create a sense of belonging among Bearkats on campus, Sam Houston State University’s Office of Institutional Diversity & Inclusion will host a week-long series of events Feb. 7 -11. The events held will focus on diversity, inclusion, belonging and kindness.

Formerly known as ‘Creed Week,’ SHSU changed the name to ‘Bearkats Belong Week’ to better connect with the campus community.

“We have found that the more connected people feel to something, the more engaged they become; and our goal is to help members of the community feel more connected to both the institution and other Bearkats,” said Office of Institutional Diversity & Inclusion Assistant Director Jalon Berry. “We hope that students, faculty and staff feel a greater sense of inclusivity and belonging here at SHSU.”

There will be six events throughout the week that are open to all Bearkats to attend, including the Inclusive Excellence Awards Ceremony. This awards ceremony will recognize those that demonstrate practices highlighted in the Bearkats Belong Creed and who have championed inclusivity throughout the school year.

“Throughout the week, we will have various events that range from educational to mindfulness,” Berry said. “We know that social justice related topics have been heavily discussed for the past two years, so we also want to provide the campus community with ways to have challenging conversations while remaining civil with someone with opposing views.”

For more information on the Office of Institutional Diversity & Inclusion and their efforts on campus, visit https://www.shsu.edu/dept/diversity-inclusion/.

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