Realizing Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Core Certificate

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), outlines the parameters and expectations for the certificate program, and provides a brief overview of the value DEI brings to the university. Participants will also make meaning and draw distinctions between diversity, inclusion and equity, and discuss how each contributes to Inclusive Excellence within the campus community. Finally participants will be able to develop and articulate their own commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 

Learning Outcomes:  

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Define and differentiate between equity, diversity, and inclusion 
• Articulate the historical and contemporary context of DEI within higher education and the business case for it
• Reflect on the ways DEIB shows up on the campus of Wake Forest University and communicate one’s personal commitment to DEI

In this workshop, participants will delve into the intricate web of intersecting identities such as: race, gender, sexuality, ability, and socioeconomic status, to gain a deeper understanding of lived experiences. Through a combination of self-reflection exercises and group discussions, participants will explore the personal and social impacts of identity, examining how beliefs, biases and ideas are shaped by socialization, and how they influence interactions with others. Finally, participants will explore the ways in which identities intersect and can create unique experiences of privilege and/or marginalization.

Learning Outcomes: 

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify and describe both personal and social identity markers
• Understand the concept of socialization and its impacts on our ideas, beliefs, and biases about other people
• Describe how identities intersect to create narratives or experiences of privilege and marginalization

This workshop will explore the hidden biases that influence our decisions, relationships, and behaviors. Participants will gain valuable insights into recognizing and addressing unconscious biases, and learn how to move towards conscious inclusion by fostering a culture of conscious and equitable practices.

Learning Outcomes: 

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Recognize common forms of unconscious bias, understanding how these biases can affect perceptions and actions, in both personal and professional settings
• Understand the impact of unconscious biases on individuals and groups, gaining awareness of how these biases contribute to inequities, and hinder inclusive environments
• Develop strategies to mitigate unconscious biases and promote conscious inclusion through: equitable practices in decision-making, communication, and interpersonal relationships

This workshop will focus on effective communication strategies and collaboration techniques that promote understanding and inclusivity in both academic and professional settings. Participants will develop the skills and understanding needed to communicate effectively and respectfully across diverse cultural backgrounds. Attendees will explore the impact of culture on communication styles, verbal and nonverbal cues, and interpersonal dynamics. The session will also address common challenges in cross-cultural communication, gain practical strategies to navigate these challenges and build bridges of understanding and respect.

Learning Outcomes: 

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Recognize cultural variations in communication styles, nonverbal cues, and social norms
• Use various strategies for successful cross-cultural communication including: active listening, adapting communication styles, and language to bridge cultural gaps and ensure mutual understanding
• Describe common challenges to effective cross-cultural communication including: microaggressions, power imbalances, and misuse of pronouns

This session is designed for participants to learn about how their relationship to power and privilege can influence decision-making, the treatment of others, and institutional effectiveness. This session encourages participants to consider the importance of advocacy for a variety of groups by understanding the challenges and biases groups can face, and opportunities  to offer effective support. Participants will also examine their own positionality and ability to advocate for change, and make space for those that are marginalized.

Learning Outcomes: 

By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 

• Define allyship and advocacy and understand the capacities in which both can be impactful 
• Examine their own positionality as change agents and advocates for marginalized communities
• Develop agency in being an active advocate to invoke change and inclusive excellence on campus

In this workshop, participants will deepen their understanding of organizational values, identify stages of inclusion within the institution, and equip themselves with actionable strategies to foster inclusive environments at Wake Forest Participants will delve into the continuum of inclusion, from exclusionary practices to  inclusive environments, assessing their organization’s current position and envisioning steps towards progress.

Learning Outcomes: 

By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 

• Understand and express what defines challenging experiences and fundamental entitlements within the organizational context.
• Identify and assess the Stages of Inclusion within their organization ranging from exclusion to an inclusive organization. 
• Promote individual and organizational change by applying strategies to foster inclusion, including using inclusive language, challenging unconscious biases, etc. 
• Articulate specific actions to support diversity and inclusion at Wake Forest University, demonstrating personal and organizational commitment to advancing inclusive excellence.