Diversity at SVSU
Diversity at SVSU involves exploring differences such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment and to move beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions found within each other's differences. The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance of and respect for our differences and appreciating that it is those differences that make each of us unique.
"Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at SVSU Annual Report and Celebration"
Documentary Film Screening: "Beyond Their Years"
Date & Time:
Tuesday, October 29, 7:00 p.m.
Join us for a screening of Beyond Their Years, a 47-minute documentary that highlights the inspiring careers and lives of Buck O’Neil and Herbert Carnegie.
Following the film, a live panel discussion will explore key themes of inclusivity, equity, and allyship, featuring a representative from the hockey community.
Panel Discussion:
- Moderator: Rico Phillips, Ontario Hockey League Director of Cultural Diversity and Inclusion
Location:
Malcolm Field Theatre, Curtiss Hall, SVSU
- Free and open to the public
- No admission fee
Don't miss this opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion in sports and beyond!
Karen S. Carter delivers 2023 Commencement speech for Fall graduation
Karen S. Carter, president of Dow’s Packaging & Specialty Plastics (P&SP) business operating segment, has been selected to address Saginaw Valley State University’s graduating class during two commencement ceremonies on Saturday, Dec. 16.
Carter, who has spent her entire career at Dow, was named president of P&SP in November 2022. With annual sales exceeding $29 billion, the business unit is widely recognized as the world’s largest materials supplier of polyethylene resins and functional polymers used in a wide variety of applications.
Since joining Dow in 1993, Carter has served in a progression of roles. Prior to being named president of P&SP, Carter served four years as Dow’s chief human resources officer and chief inclusion officer, successfully institutionalizing inclusion and diversity as key drivers for long-term growth.
Carter has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Howard University and a master’s degree in international business from DePaul University. Carter has been widely recognized for her innovative leadership. In 2014, Carter was named to the prestigious Forty Women to Watch Over 40 list for her innovative leadership contributions. In 2018, she was named to Black Enterprise’s Top Executives in Diversity list. In 2019, Carter was named to Black Enterprise’s Most Powerful Women in Corporate America list. In 2020, 2021 and 2022, Carter was recognized as one of the 100 Ethnic Minority Executives on the EMpower Ethnic Minority Role Model Lists supported by Yahoo Finance and by YouTube in 2023. Most recently, she was inducted into the Kansas African American Museum Trailblazer Hall of Fame.
History Made
Mamie T. Thorns receives 2022 National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education Award
Mamie T. Thorns, SVSU associate vice president and chief diversity officer for diversity, equity and inclusion, was awarded the prestigious 2022 National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education Dr. Frank Hale, Jr. Award. Mamie was honored at the association's annual conference in San Diego on Friday, March 18, 2022.
Mamie has been instrumental in leading SVSU through an institutional transformation of inclusive excellence advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across our campus.
The award is presented to an individual who is distinguished in higher education, through a robust record of consistent service, for inclusive excellence; exercising innovative and courageous leadership; serving as a visionary in the field; and exemplifying the philosophy, principles, and practices of the Association; and contributing to diversity and inclusive excellence in higher education.
