By Michelle Hines, University Relations
Contact: (336) 334-5371
Posted 2-4-09
GREENSBORO, N.C. – The School of Education Access and Equity Committee will host its second annual conference Saturday, Feb. 14.
This year’s conference focuses on immigration, education and building a sense of community. It runs from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. in the Sullivan Science Building.
The conference is free and open to the public. Free parking and a free lunch are also provided.
The Unity in Diversity conferences evolved as the School of Education recognized the importance of diversity in all levels, not only in our nation but also in our state and our universities, said Dr. Jewell Cooper, chair of the Access and Equity Committee. Cooper pointed out that North Carolina ranks fourth in the nation in rapid growth of immigrant populations.
“Sooner more than later we are going to feel a stronger presence of immigrants within the halls of universities across our state,” Cooper said. “Therefore, we must find ways to be responsive to our immigrant population both within the halls of institutions of higher education and our surrounding communities in an effort to build a more robust, united community working for the benefit of all.”
Keynote speakers for the conference are Dr. Margarita Machado-Casas, assistant professor, Division of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies, University of Texas-San Antonio; and Dr. H. Nolo Martinez, assistant director for outreach and community engagement, the Center for New North Carolinians.
Scheduled interactive sessions include: Health Needs of Immigrant Communities, Survivors’ Stories of Ethnic Cleansing, English Language Learners and Special Education Designations, Public Library Services and Multicultural Resources.
The conference is sponsored by the School of Education, the Center for New North Carolinians, the Office of the Associate Provost of Undergraduate Education and the SERVE Center.
To register, visit http://www.uncg.edu/soe/access_and_equity/ or call (336) 315-7400/toll free (800) 755-3277.3361.
