LeBowX Showcases Personal Stories About Diversity and Inclusion
On Nov. 10, the LeBow College of Business hosted the tenth installment of LeBowX, an event that shines the spotlight on LeBow community members as they share TED Talk-inspired presentations focused on diversity, equity and inclusion. Held twice per year, in the fall and spring terms, the event encourages speakers to think critically about the meaning of diversity and inclusion and what makes them passionate about the topic.
LeBow aspires to be a leader and partner in creating an anti-racist community and advancing a global mindset for all students, faculty, staff and stakeholders. “In creating LeBowX, we understood that people wanted to have their voices heard. We wanted to provide a platform that allows our community to share their truths and experiences,” said Brian Ellis, PhD, associate dean for academic programs administration at LeBow and executive director of the Goodwin College of Professional Studies.
The four speakers touched on themes of bias and stereotypes, imposter syndrome, finding purpose, and making positive changes.
Connor Jackson, an MBA student and recent graduate from Drexel’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design in graphic design, explored the evolution of gender stereotypes in American advertising. His talk, “Shattering Norms,” looked at Coca-Cola’s ads from the 1900s to now to reveal how a brand’s visuals mirror and shape society. He noted that although the needle has moved over the years, there is more room to grow, and his hope is that this insight can guide marketers toward building socially responsible brands.
Andrew Austria, a first-year majoring in Finance, discussed racial imposter syndrome and how this effects establishing a sense of self. Through his own learning process of self-doubt and struggling with racial identity, he encouraged others that it was ok to be where you are in life and that each individual is a composite of all their cultures.
Aashvi Patel, a senior studying finance and business analytics, focused on finding purpose. Through her talk, she hoped to encourage individuals to find their motivation and their unique voice.
Tonya Betterson, an MBA student and a diversity, equity and inclusion champion, discussed unconscious bias. As a human resources professional with almost twenty years of experience, she encouraged attendees to be intentional when making decisions. Everyone has bias, but in order to make positive change, everyone needs to understand the importance of their motivation.
The LeBowX presentations are available online.
