Sport Sponsorship

As a University, we have had several seminars and speakers on campus concerning equity and inclusion. Our goal as a University and department is to provide an environment free from discrimination and bias. The athletic department incorporates LGTBQ education and training to create an environment within the department that encourages inclusion and diversity. As well as our department participates in unconscious bias, title ix trainings, preventing discrimination and harassment educations and training. We have also focused our SAAC conversations on this topic and will continue to develop specific events centered around inclusion. We have scheduled time in each of our departmental meetings for diversity, equity and inclusion which includes open dialogue, information/experience sharing, safe zone training information.

The MUW Counseling Center provided safe zone training this fall and will have another one this spring. Safe Zone is an educational program that fosters a safe and civil community for all individuals, particularly members of our community who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, plus (LGBTQIA+). Goal #1 is to promote understanding, create awareness and respect for all members of our community, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identification. Goal #2 is to create a visible network of faculty, staff and student volunteers with whom students can discuss personal issues without feeling judged or threatened. Those who complete the training and display the Safe Zone placard will indicate to students their willingness to be available as part of a "safe" campus network to discuss any issues they face.

The Mississippi University for Women strives to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for all faculty, staff and students in our community. In our most recent athletic department meeting, our ADID, Glen Halbert, led us through a few case studies. We discussed opportunities to promote healthy environments, creating successful outcomes, removing barriers and making sure that we are a welcoming campus. Our homework was to reflect on 2-3 of our most defining moments and be prepared to discuss them at our next meeting. This session finished by reminding us that we have individuals on our campus who feel marginalized and it is our job to everything in our power ensure everyone knows that they have a voice, a place and are respected. 39