At the Diversity Roundtable Event, which took place in Old Union Hall on Sept. 20,
36 students met with representatives from 11 top employers over complimentary dinner.
The Roundtable served as both a discussion forum about DEI in the workplace and an
opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds to network with employers such as
Bloomberg, Teach for America, Aflac, PwC and YWCA of Binghamton. Students were initially
assigned to tables based on their interests, and then could move around to engage
in different discussions.
Small groups gave every student a chance to speak and connect on a personal level
with representatives, many of whom come from underrepresented minority communities.
Students could learn about job and internship opportunities with companies looking
to recruit diverse talent in fields ranging from education to accounting and beyond.
Dr. Jones discussed her family, education, and her personal journey to be where she
is today as BU’s Vice President for DEI. She also discussed the importance of honesty
and understanding your purpose. Knowing your personal motivations guides you in the
work that you will do for any company or organization.
Importantly, Dr. Jones described how every member of a workplace environment can and
should demonstrate respect and inclusivity. Engaging with positive feedback, being
committed to taking action and holding oneself accountable are some of the best practices
for creating a space that is both productive and welcoming.
Yaleza Fernandez, a senior majoring in human development and member of the Fleishman
Center’s Diversity Engagement team, worked at the Roundtable event checking students
in and leading them to their first table. “Everyone was captivated by Karen Jones
and what diversity means to her,” she remarked.
Fernandez also watched the lively atmosphere bloom as students went around linking
with company recruiters.
“I saw that many people were having great conversations with employers, and many students
had resumes with them, which was helpful when speaking with employers,” she said.
“Being proactive about asking questions will showcase that you are interested, which
will look great in the eyes of a recruiter!”
“I think it was incredible to see how many students, especially underclassmen, came
in to interact with these businesses,” said Ramirez-Cisneros. “They were not afraid
to ask questions, and decided to learn from a person rather than a website. I also
found it amazing how enthusiastic and open employers were when talking to students.”
If you know what to look for, you’ll find plenty of employers who want to bring people
of different backgrounds — genders, races, abilities, immigration status and more
— onto their team. In the end, DEI is an essential part of a smooth-running work atmosphere,
and always worth advocating for. The Roundtable Event served as a gateway to finding
a company receptive to that.
“I think this was an amazing way to get students of diverse backgrounds to start learning
to advocate for themselves as well as recognize good and welcoming professional environments,”
said Ramirez-Cisneros.
Tiffany Soto, LMSW, Diversity Engagement Specialist at the Fleishman Center, organized and led the roundtable event.
Beyond the Diversity Roundtable, students can join the Fleishman Center’s Affinity
Groups to find unique and supportive networking communities for members of underserved
student populations. Learn more about Affinity Groups on the Fleishman Center website.
By Erin Zipman
