Diversity in Higher Education

Laredo Morning Times | lmtonline.com | Sunday, July 12, 2020 | E3 50th Anniversary Each facet of university life is improved by a vast set of multiple perspectives that give others a chance to grow. By understanding the strug- gles of one culture, others can learn ways to help and prevent those struggles from exacerbating, especially dur- ing the current Black Lives Matter Movement, strug- gles the LGBTQ+ commu- nity faces, violence against women and other divisive and withstanding issues around the world. A current online petition written by Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix demands for a review and advancement to school district curriculums and objectives to include more social justice, diver- sity, equity and inclusion. It also states that education is the most valuable tool to dis- mantle racism and create a more equitable society. So, whether it’s diversity of race, gender and/ or sexual orienta- tion, a commu- nity that upholds the true values of multiculturalism and works togeth- er towards them can lead to better global society and prepare students for the real world. Diverse Minds, Diverse Experience TAMIU’s cast of professors and students is a boon that pro- vides multiple perspectives around the different fields of study. With professors from around the world, Laredo students can ask questions and learn from one another with first-hand experience about a location or culture of their interest. In college, this opportunity may lead a student to travel abroad or perhaps change their en- tire future to experience the world through their career goal. Peer-to-peer coopera- tion also benefits as students learn more about their classmates and each other’s culture. Dr. Marivic Torregosa, TAMIU College of Nursing and Health Scienc- es Dean, was born in Bohol, an island in the Philippines. According to her, the Asian Pacific American culture has a great empha- sis on education, and she said that a college education is the greatest in- heritance parents can provide to their children. “I think we just need to continue to embrace, cel- ebrate and practice our val- ues, culture and traditions as these have made us strong and remain united through- out the decades to overcome struggles and challenges and brought us to where we are today.” Alumnus, LGBTQ+ member and children’s book author Alejandro Maza said that it is important that an LGBTQ+ member can be themselves without facing repercussions anywhere. As he and his husband work to raise their daughter, they also advocate for equal rights for all LGBTQ+ members and are a shining example of a loving and diverse family. “Having a diverse com- munity within the work- place, university campuses and in general is always im- portant,” Maza said. “There is so much we can contrib- ute to this society. As we all know, diversity is funda- mental in an inclusive soci- ety which we are aiming to be.” A Woman’s Rights ac- Dr. Mehnaaz Momen Dr. Marivic Torregosa Dr. Irma Cantu Dr. Alfred Addo-Mensah