The University of Lynchburg’s Q affinity group was recently named a recipient of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine’s 2020 Inspiring Affinity Group Award.
The award honors programs that inspire and encourage higher education professionals “to come to a campus such as yours because you have created employee resource groups that offer mentoring, collaboration, social networking opportunities, and more,” Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity, said.
Lynchburg Q is a safe space for LGBTQIA+ faculty and staff to celebrate their identities while simultaneously finding ways to uplift LGBTQIA+ students on campus. It’s among a number of initiatives headed by the University’s Office of Equity and Inclusion to ensure everyone feels welcome at Lynchburg.
“With INSIGHT Into Diversity being a premier source that supports diversity and inclusion news, I am humbled, but also elated that the magazine recognized Lynchburg Q as a recipient for their 2020 Inspiring Affinity Group award,” Diversity and Inclusion Officer Robert Canida said. “What’s more impressive is the inclusive and affirming environment that Lynchburg Q has created for our LGBTQIA+ family members.
“I applaud [Accessibility and Disability Resources Specialist] Meg Dillon for her leadership, and the group members’ genuine commitment to this employee-focused organization. I’m ecstatic to be a Hornet and part of a campus community that truly respects, embraces, values, and affirms all.”
Pearlstein said this commitment sets Lynchburg apart among higher ed employers.
“Through our years of experience in this field, we know that underrepresented faculty will play an even bigger role in making your institution the go-to campus where others know they can feel respected and welcome and their careers can flourish,” Pearlstein said.
INSIGHT Into Diversity is the oldest and largest diversity and inclusion publication and job board in higher education. In addition to providing higher ed with diversity and inclusion news and information, the magazine gives out the annual Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award, and is the creator of the Viewfinder Campus Climate Surveys. It is the only remaining print magazine focused entirely on diversity and inclusion in higher ed and beyond.
