From the Chief Diversity Officer

 Office of the Chancellor      May 30, 2020

From the Chief Diversity Officer

To the members of the WCU community,

Spring at WCU is my favorite time of the year; not only are we in the season of renewal, but Commencement is nearby, and what better time to celebrate the richness of our student accomplishments. It is indeed a beautiful day. This spring was different. We faced a pandemic that changed our lives and continues to do so. We are still somewhat in disbelief, yet we remain steadfast and resilient, something we live and breathe at Western Carolina University.

I feel blessed and safeguarded by my experience at WCU, and I hope the gladness I enjoy is one that you also experience.

My words today are trying to form themselves. I write with a heart that is also full of angst – because it is difficult to consider our humanity without a tremendous feeling of trepidation for our nation.

The death of George Floyd and the public’s reaction brings Minnesota a bit closer to our consciousness. I have learned that even in times of crisis, there are events that can further discourage our spirit. The continuous persistence of racism and systemic injustice in our nation highlights the importance of expanding our critical thinking and experiences.

I am in pain today because my humanity is at stake. For me to understand what happened in Georgia, New York, and Minnesota, I must feel. It is difficult to process the loss of life. At this moment, we cannot afford to disaggregate ourselves from our humanity. To think that what matters is the local.

I imagine that many of us just want to stay close to our loved ones and shelter them. Others might be experiencing a deep sense of loss and a desire to want to help. Today, let us do what we can. Start by checking in with your family and friends. Keep in mind that our WCU community is here for you. I think of Chief Lillard and all the officers that keep our campus safe. I think of our African American faculty, staff, and students who have chosen to make WCU part of their lives. I think of all of you who stepped up during the pandemic and carried WCU’s mission until the semester’s end. Our strength and our resolve will continue to support us.

As a community, we must commit to working together to improve our societal challenges. When we build a community, we seek to treat one another with respect and kindness. Let us value and care for that community – and let us work to improve it. I am here to help guide us, and you can reach me at rnazariocolon@wcu.edu. Let’s find meaningful ways to come together.

Sincerely yours,

Ricardo Nazario-Colón
Chief Diversity Officer