Equity+Inclusion:
Leaning Into Discomfort to Enact Lasting Change Four years ago, Winchester Thurston hired its first Director of Equity and Inclusion to develop and implement school-wide structures that have become more deeply rooted with each passing year. Today, WT expands the work by engaging The Glasgow Group, noted experts in the field. “The opportunity to have external consultants push us in this work is important,” states Assistant Head for Education and Strategy Adam Nye. “They come with a fresh set of eyes, as a neutral third party. I look forward to The Glasgow Group helping us to confront the challenges and obstacles that have held us back.” The decision to involve an external consultant was precipitated by the departure of Director of Equity and Inclusion Diane Nichols, and informed by feedback from WT alumnae/i of color after the murder of George Floyd. “Hearing from our alums of color really let us know that we needed to have an outside group that could take a look and be honest and objective with us as we work toward our goals,” says Head of School Dr. Scott D. Fech. “Diane left us with a strong infrastructure, and we wanted support as we continue our work and while we look for her successor." The alums helped determine priorities for The Glasgow Group’s agenda, says Fech. “Listening to stories from both alums and current students, and hearing where we’re not serving students of color as well as the call for improvement, helped us identify places where we know there’s work to be done: Are our Handbooks reflective of inclusive
The photos in this article show a range of experiences throughout the curriculum that bring diversity, equity, and inclusion front and center at WT. Please note that these photos were taken prior to the pandemic.
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