Diversity Statement

My commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, as demonstrated by my past experiences, align well with the missions of most universities. As a first-generation college student, I understand the importance of trustworthy advocates that can guide a student’s academic journey and help them get the most out of their collegiate experience. As a professor, my main priority is to be that advocate for students who navigating through the world of academia. I am committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, are given the opportunities to excel in all scholarly activities.

My time as a graduate student and researcher has allowed me to work with a diversity of intelligent people coming from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and worldviews. As a student, I frequently conduct research and collaborate on projects with this diverse group of students and professors, all with different opinions and views on the topics we study in the field of international studies. As a community activist and president of a local chapter of the United Nations Association, I encounter an even more diverse group of people with different levels of education, age ranges, and economic backgrounds. I work with individuals from all different walks of life, and I learn from each one. 

My academic career has often focused on diversity and the inclusion of minorities. My dissertation topic is on the impact of foreign aid on poverty in developing countries. Within this subject, I focus on the poorest of the poor, those who have been left behind by economic progress. I also was recently published for an article on the various social and economic issues facing women in the Middle East. In this article, I analyzed the current state of affairs for women in the region and provided policy recommendations that could mediate the various challenges they face. Through these projects and many others, I frequency conduct research and analyze different policy choices that affect minority groups, providing answers to question: How can we leave no one behind?

I plan to continue to my dedication to inclusion and diversity, particularly through teaching as well as research. As a professor at this institution, I will participate in a variety of programs that promote diversity and inclusion. I will also implement topics of diversity and inclusion within my course design and syllabus. Each course I teach at this institution will discuss issues of diversity and inclusion that relate to the specific topic I teach. I believe no course is complete without assessing how minority groups are represented or affected within each subject.