The LSU College of Agriculture pilots the Diversity and Inclusion Champions program

By Annabelle Lang

The LSU College of Agriculture launched its pilot program for Diversity and Inclusion Champions in January 2021. The initiative aims to connect students to faculty and staff within their respective departments and schools. 

“Our faculty are critical to serving the needs of our ever-growing, diverse student body. The Diversity and Inclusion Champions exemplify the college’s unyielding commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Monica Guient, assistant vice president for diversity, inclusion and opportunity for the LSU AgCenter and College of Agriculture.

Diversity and Inclusion Champions will serve as a point of contact for students and fellow faculty in the College of Agriculture. The role of a diversity champion is intended for faculty members of the LSU AgCenter and College of Agriculture community who are engaged with minority and underrepresented student groups.

The champions host coffee chats and guest lecturers and attend College of Agriculture events throughout the academic year. Guient emphasizes that the college’s students are the co-creators of the inclusive space that they envision. These faculty members serve as mentors, confidants and advocates for students in their respective departments.

“Creating a diverse and inclusive educational environment requires that everyone has a seat at the table,” Guient said.

These faculty members will serve as Champions for one calendar year but may reapply to serve for an additional year. There are plans to expand the Diversity and Inclusion Champions into the LSU AgCenter.