Past Essential Discussions
Free Speech and Why It Matters
Debate and dialogue are essential for colleges and universities as they address issues of diversity, equity, and belonging. Effective leadership is crucial to ensure that individuals from all backgrounds can express themselves. The American Civil Liberties Union emphasizes that while offensive speech is protected, it should not lead to harassment or a hostile environment for vulnerable students. This year’s Essential Discussion, titled “Free Speech and Why It Matters,” aims to foster respectful interactions that promote well-being and inclusion within the community.
A Celebration of Healing and Hope
Monroe Community College alumna Dellenna Harper '09 will share her powerful story at “A Celebration of Healing and Hope” on March 24, 2022, at Nazareth College, in honor of Women’s History Month and Social Work Month. Harper, also a Nazareth alumna, will discuss her struggles with racism, sexism, drug addiction, and prostitution, highlighting her journey to becoming a dedicated social worker. Her experiences are detailed in her book, God’s Teardrop: My Journey of Healing from Addiction and Prostitution, co-authored with Jane Sutter Brandt.
Supporting Student Veterans in Higher Education
As college campuses become more diverse, retaining students, particularly military-affiliated students, poses unique challenges. Military-affiliated students, who make up about 6% of undergraduates, face barriers like the perception that they might not be welcomed in academic settings. Despite these challenges, they often excel due to their maturity and dedication. The initiative “Supporting Student Veterans in Higher Education” aims to address these issues, fostering dialogue to enhance support and inclusion for military-affiliated students within the college community.
Inclusive Higher Education: Inspiring Change from Within
Our colloquium emphasized the importance of understanding the obstacles facing today’s students and developing strategies for their academic and life success. Led by dedicated Monroe Community College faculty and staff, the event focused on institutional structures, student experiences, and teaching practices that influence inclusivity. Keynote speakers included Dr. Amalia Dache from the University of Missouri, Dr. Stephen John Quaye from Miami University, and student leader Althea Jones-Johnson from the University at Buffalo. Additionally, attendees enjoyed a theater performance by Impact Interactive, LLC, which fostered meaningful discussion and collaborative problem-solving around inclusion.
Beyond Academics: Supporting Holistic Student Readiness
Higher education is evolving beyond a "one size fits all" approach. Monroe Community College will host an Essential Discussion on March 7, 2018, focusing on the non-academic barriers to student achievement. This event aims to explore new methods for assessing students’ developmental needs and fostering their confidence and focus as lifelong learners.
MCC will feature national experts Jacquie Beaubien from Stanford University and Kevin Li from Triton College, along with panelists from SUNY colleges and local school districts. This discussion is supported by a SUNY Conversations in the Disciplines grant, which promotes scholarly activities and curricular innovations in various academic fields.