Celebrating Diversity

photo by Kendra Mamea photo by Kinzie Norton

York College has always had transformation at the heart of its purpose; its mission is to transform lives through Christ-centered education and to equip students for lifelong service to God, family and society. While transformation of the heart and mind is not an easy task, York College has created a culture that continually strives to transform its entire community. One of the many ways this has taken place is through the Diversity Club. Founded in 2020 by Dr. Erin DeHart, associate professor of education and chair of the department, and Tree Burks, head men’s basketball coach and physical education instructor, the Club encourages transformation through speakers, events, book studies, and movie nights held throughout the year for the whole campus.

The Diversity Club’s events highlight a culture through food, music, literature, and introductions of influential individuals. For example, during National Hispanic Heritage Month, authentic Mexican dishes including tamales, empanadas, pupusa, pozole, and churros were prepared and served in the Caf’ by fellow classmates, family members, and some of the coaching staff. Following dinner, the celebration was moved outside to Larsen Commons where an elusive piñata full of Mexican candy kept everyone in suspense until Daniel Polo, a freshman baseball player from Panama City, Panama, connected with a full swing. In February, the Club hosted an African-American Culture Night that was ’90s

by Bekah Powell, Class of 2024

themed. McGehee Hall was decorated with posters and information about historical figures, celebrities, and civil rights activists. They also had a table filled with various literature that included children's stories, poetry, and books about the experiences of African-Americans throughout history and how that affects AfricanAmericans in society today.

It was truly a wonderful evening with students dressed in ’90s outfits as we packed into McGehee to grab catered food from Mary Ellen’s: Food for the Soul. While waiting in line, we listened to music from famous African-American artists and enjoyed the different displays around the building. The evening concluded with a raffle that included a variety of literature and content from AfricanAmerican creators.

Along with the themed events, there are many amazing opportunities to learn about the diversity that exists on campus and in other cultures. DeHart and Burks lead book studies on subjects of racism, diversity, and equality in society today. We also watched and discussed different movies and specials that addressed cultural injustices and misconceptions and documentaries that depicted cultural identity struggles.

Engaging in one another’s stories is a powerful and integral way to truly understand and internalize truth. Jesus

(left) Churros make the perfect dessert for Jasmine Scarbrough, Danielle Armendariz, Bruce Johnson, Finau Fakahua, and Elisa Cardona.

(above left) Dr. Erin DeHart, front right, enjoys the after-dinner festivities with students.

(above) Daniel Castaneda works alongside his mom and fellow soccer teammate Jose Herdandez in making delicious pupusas for the National Hispanic Heritage meal.

photo by Kendra Mamea

(above) Bri Slaughter, Candice Jones, and Diamond Harrington approve of the amazing food catered by Mary Ellen's: Food for the Soul during African-American Culture Night.

demonstrated the importance of stories time and time again within his ministry. He utilized parables as a tool to help people to not only understand God’s logic but also to understand His heart. Transformation of a community is a daunting task; however, when people learn to cherish the stories of each other’s lives, transformation is nearly inevitable.

While the Diversity Club has created fun new events, book studies, and watch parties, it has also created a space on campus for people to come together and share in life’s infinitely unique beauty. It is through community and relationship that God’s character is revealed, and the Diversity Club understands and conducts itself with that understanding. Students, faculty, and staff can share their stories of life and learn how to cherish the distinct intricacies of God’s creation. The Club’s impact on York College has shown that God’s unfathomable love is reflected in the depth of purpose within all of humanity, despite the many cultural differences and life experiences. In fact, it is in the beautiful variation of God’s creation that one is able to possibly glimpse the infinite divinity of the Creator as well. n

A special thanks to Kendra Mamea, a graduate assistant from Garden Grove, Calif., who helped plan, promote, and carry out the Diversity Club's events.

(right) Moriah Toledo, a senior from Farmington, N.M., graduated this spring Cum Laude in administration. During her four years as a student, she was involved in Delta Chi Alpha social club, a member of the softball team, and Professional Business Leaders chapter serving in 2021-22 as the state vice president of communication. Moriah is a national champion in Human Resource Management for PBL and will be competing at nationals again in June 2022. Dear Freshman Mo,

As you are about to graduate college within the next few weeks you are probably wondering about what lies ahead of you. It’s crazy to think that my four years spent at York College are gone just like that. As I am writing this I am also reflecting on all the lessons I learned throughout my college experience. However, knowing what I know now, there are a lot of things I wish I were able to tell you back then, especially after first stepping foot on campus. College was an experience of many ups and downs, a lot of happiness and sadness, a lot of friends coming and going, and you can finish the rest.

For me I saw it as a learning experience, I am honored to say that I was able to find my true self here at YC, a competent and courageous leader, a mentor, a sympathetic friend, and overall adhering to my ethics. I also saw it as a place to grow spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally. One of my mentors, Nick DiToro, once said, “I provide for you the opportunity to learn. What you do with that opportunity is not my fault.” He allowed me to grow as a person, as a student, and professionally. And I would have to say, looking back from freshman year to now, I've seen a lot of growth and change within myself. Freshman me was quiet and stayed in her room all the time, now senior me is taking on leadership roles and inspiring others.

Just remember this: • Surround yourself with good people, those who want to see you succeed. • They say to be involved within the campus but make sure to handle what only you can don’t overwork yourself. • Make sure to put in the time and effort needed for classes and sports (if involved) all the hard work will pay off. • Don’t be afraid to ask for help, there are people out there that are willing to help and be there for you. • Put God first in everything you do.

And lastly, don’t be afraid of change, change is good. Be willing and open to change because you will never know how a small change can lead to a huge change in perspective. In the end, you will find your purpose in life, why God opened up this amazing opportunity for you at YC. Thank you York College, Softball, and PBL for everything you have done to transform me into the person I am today.

Yours Sincerely, Moriah Toledo '22