Many of us are interested in the ways we can manage a classroom in a more equitable way”
Last semester was nearing its end, and things were busy around the Dana Mohler-Faria Science and Mathematics Center. However, a group of faculty members and staff still made time for what has become, in recent years, a regular get-together to discuss issues pertaining to racial justice and equity.
The members of the Racial Justice Collective who were present on this December afternoon talked about the year that was and attended to the day’s official business: laying out the agenda for its monthly meetings this year. Each month, the collective brings together up to a dozen members, along with the occasional spectator.
“It started sort of low key and then we broadened the group,” said founding member Dr. Meri Krevoski, a professor in the Department of Biology.
Over time, friendships have been made and/or strengthened, and perspectives shared and discussed. The monthly meetings are friendly and easy-going, but also serious.
“I’ve found it to be a very safe place to have a very real conversation and to learn from my colleagues, from perspectives that I didn’t know a lot about,” said Maria Armour, biology lab instructor. “It’s been a real eye opener for me.”
The group came together in the wake of the police murder of George Floyd in May 2020, after initial conversations between Dr. Vignon Oussa, a professor in the Department of Mathematics, and then Dean of the Bartlett College of Science and Mathematics Kristen Porter-Utley. The founding members of this collective include Dr. Laura Gross of the Department of Computer Science; Dr. Saritha Nellutla of the Department of Chemical Sciences; and Dr. Samuel Serna Otálvaro of the Department of Physics, Photonics and Optical Engineering.
The group members have settled on a winning combination, featuring an annual speaker who addresses the group (usually via Zoom these days), as well as monthly meetings, each focused on a single topic relating to equity and often featuring a presentation. Occasionally, there’s some outside reading and visits from students willing to discuss issues like racial justice.
The goal is to learn about and discuss a wide range of issues and highlight best practices in teaching.
“Many of us are interested in the ways we can manage a classroom in a more equitable way,” Dr. Krevosky said.
The formula seems to work, she added. “Several of the faculty and staff involved in this project are making efforts to ensure that their syllabi and course materials are more inclusive. Further, many are committed to making their research opportunities more accessible to students who may work outside of BSU.”
Dr. Vignon Oussa, who helps run the group’s meetings and works behind the scenes to organize things, agrees that the meetings serve multiple purposes.
“It feels like finally we have the right set up, with smaller conversations,” he said. “Having this safe space is very important, a place you can speak freely and safely with people who will give you honest feedback. That’s super valuable.”
Visiting speakers have included Grinnell University Professor Beronda Montgomery, who discussed diversity through the lens of plant life, and a former Purdue University professor who left the university over issues related to racism.
These talks are sponsored by a fund established by Bridgewater State’s Class of 1942.
Talks and presentations by members of the collective or from the extended BSU community for this year include topics such as the lack of diversity in teaching materials, antisemitism, teaching in prisons and even a painting session.
“If you have a topic that’s really bothering you, and you need a platform, this is it,” said Dr. Oussa. “I’ve gotten something out of each presentation.”
Other members of the Racial Justice Collective are Associate Professor of Chemical Sciences Dr. Sarah Soltau, Associate Professor of Geological Sciences Dr. Christine Brandon, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Dr. Joslyn Mills, biology lab Instructor Deborah Fiore, Health Professions Coordinator Dr. Alexandra Zilz, and Mathematics Professor Dr. Ward Heilman.