Spring Cardinal Conversations Aim to Spark Action

Now in its second year, Cardinal Conversations aims to engage the campus community in dialogue and skill-building activities and create a meaningful action plan for the fall.

“This series will strengthen connection, efficacy, and competency around our shared goal of inclusion and equity,” said Dr. Marlowe Washington, senior diversity officer at Fisher. “There will be six topics that promote knowledge acquisition and practice with the intention of being action-oriented.”

Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 7, the sessions will recognize the role culture plays in shaping perceptions, habits, and communication styles and give detailed guidance for structuring inclusive practices in the workplace and post-secondary education.

Each session will focus on a different topic, along the theme, “What is the Experience of Black and Brown People at Fisher?” Each conversation will connect to the University’s Strategic Plan, which includes building an inclusive and adaptive culture that values the contribution of its constituents of color.

“Working toward greater equity at Fisher is an ongoing and iterative process that will require continuous commitment to making the campus community more welcoming,” Washington said, adding that the Cardinal Conversations are one way to bring people together.

This semester’s conversations are co-chaired by Dr. Holly Brown, associate professor in the Wegmans School of Nursing and associate director of the Golisano Institute for Developmental Disability Nursing; Joy Breeden, student accessibility services coordinator; and Jenna Vinoya, SGA vice president.

Cardinal Conversations Schedule

4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7
Topic: Intention

12 to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21
Topic: Humanity and Empathy

5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 13
Topic: Courage

5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 20
Topic: Individuality

Week of April 3 (time and date TBD)
Topic: Love

Week of April 17 (time and date TBD)
Topic: Allyship