The University of Iowa Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is highlighting the institution’s advances toward becoming a more inclusive community by producing a video series titled The Journey to Unity Update. Weekly installments will feature conversations between community members from across campus.

In conjunction with Black History Month, the February series will address the topic of African American male leadership. The first video is available now, and new videos will be shared each Monday. Participants in the conversation include:

• Liz Tovar, executive officer and associate vice president, Division of DEI
• Lew Montgomery, associate director for DEI, Finance and Operations Human Resources; recently named interim director of diversity, equity, and inclusion for the Department of Athletics
• Andre Perry, director of arts, engagement, and inclusion and senior adviser, Division of DEI
• William Menefield, assistant professor of jazz studies, School of Music
• Alton Poole, community outreach officer, Department of Public Safety
• Maria Sanchez, community outreach officer, Department of Public Safety

The first discussion focuses on why it is important for the student body to see individuals from diverse backgrounds serving in leadership roles across campus.

“Our Journey to Unity video series will go in-depth with campus leaders to continue the discussion of DEI topics in our community,” Tovar says. “Our first group of diverse leaders gave fantastic insights to why it is important to have a representative leadership for all students, faculty, and staff at Iowa.”

Additional video conversions with different themes will be posted throughout the spring semester. In March, during Women’s History Month, there will be a discussion about Iowa’s fertility services/benefits, and in April, there be a conversation with Iowa’s Jewish community.