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Jakia Steele
Over the next several weeks, we'll be showcasing members of the college's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council. Meet Jakia in today's spotlight.
Jakia Steele
Department: Student Services - Office of Student Engagement
What's your 'why'? Why did you join the DEI Council?
I joined the DEI Council because I have a passion for advocating for minoritized and underrepresented individuals. In this council, I am a champion for initiatives that promote an equitable and welcoming college environment and dedicated to ensuring student success through DEI efforts.
What change do you hope to see?
I hope to see at culture at SLCC that promotes and advocates for equity and belonging for all employees and students. I hope to see an environment at SLCC that cultivates candid conversations around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Finally, I hope to see SLCC be a forward-thinking leader in DEI efforts in the LCTCS system and across Louisiana.
How can all employees/students be a part of diversity, equity, and inclusion at SLCC?
- Start conversations about diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging with students, faculty, and staff.
- Actively listen to understand others with different experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.
- Educate yourself on DEI and social justice issues that impact individuals of different backgrounds.
- Recognize the role that you can play in creating an equitable culture at the college.
- Promote and lead with inclusivity and belonging in your classrooms, at your meetings, with your peers, and all other spaces you're in at the college.
What words do you live by?
The quote that I live by is "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." by Maya Angelou