CSU’s annual Diversity Symposium is one of the many things that are going to look different this semester. It will be held virtually, Oct. 19-23, and this year marks the 20th anniversary of the symposium that features a variety of sessions relating to diversity and inclusion, cutting-edge research presentations, and exciting keynote speakers.
With the virtual twist comes new opportunities for individuals from both campus and the larger community to participate and experience the symposium.
Ria Vigil, assistant vice president for inclusive organizational practice in the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, has been a part of the Diversity Symposium for seven years and has seen a lot of changes and challenges come about. The symposium is a massive event, and planning for it actually starts in January, Vigil explained.
The planning for the online version began in May and the summer was spent figuring out what this event might look like.
“It was never a question of not having the event, just a question of how,” Vigil said.
Virtual advantages
The symposium will offer 24 sessions live and eight pre-recorded workshops. A new exciting feature t will be question and answer sessions with the CSU Inspire speakers, an option that became possible through the Zoom technology. The committee was especially thoughtful about the variety of content this year, wanting to keep it relevant to what is going on in our world, according to Vigil.
To provide the greatest safety while using Zoom, attendees will be required to register for the week. Only those from CSU will be able to register, using their eID, but the public will be able to access all the sessions later, since they will be recorded and posted a week after the event.
Having the event online means it will be more accessible for individuals who may not have been able to attend events during the week because of class or job commitments. This way you can watch and participate from the comfort of your own space.
For more information and updates: diversity.colostate.edu/symposium/
