I would like to express a huge thank you to the JIDE department because of an amazing opportunity that they presented to some student leaders and I. Director Carl Ervin sent me a flyer invitation to a DEI conference happening at Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. Since this was a free opportunity to learn about how diversity, equity, and inclusion plays a crucial role in higher education, Carl helped me organize for Savion Shack (Sophomore), Deshaun Richardson (Junior), and myself (Graduate student) to drive to this conference and it was an excellent experience. Everyone left with social connections, job and internship opportunities, and a network of veteran professionals across many fields. This conference not only opened doors for us the day of, but extended invitations for future conferences and workshops with various organizations both in Illinois and Missouri. This professional development opportunity would not be possible had the JIDE department not extended the invitation and I know they will continue to provide opportunities for our student population to achieve greatness.

~ Curtis Pointer, Assistant Complex Director - WIU's Housing and Dining Services