DESCRIPTION:
Diversity of all kinds is a normal part of life, including people’s professional careers. The ability to engage differences positively and productively is essential. Many organizations and institutions have committed themselves to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and are seeking employees who have some foundational EDI knowledge and skills. This workshop serves that purpose. It introduces people to some key ideas and practical tools for using EDI in their professional (and also personal) lives.
Through the workshop, participants will be able to speak meaningfully about what EDI means and how it can be usefully applied. Group discussions and activities ensure that the material is engaging and stays relevant to each participant’s background and needs.
Refreshments will be provided (water, coffee, tea & fruit). There will be a short break at about the half way point.
PRESENTERS:
Tim McGee is an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant at Memorial Health. Whether analyzing systems and policies, designing and leading group trainings, or providing individual support, he works to make sure everyone is treated fairly and with the dignity and respect they deserve.
His approach to inclusion and belonging builds from his previous work in higher education as a chaplain, professor, and DEI practitioner, as well as nonprofit work in refugee resettlement and with religious organizations. He has a PhD in Religious Studies from Southern Methodist University and a Master’s Degree from Duke University, with both degrees focusing on antiracism and solidarity in the Christian tradition. He currently lives in Jacksonville, IL.
Sonja Chargois serves the Macon County community in her role as Community Health & Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator for Decatur Memorial Hospital. In that capacity Sonja develops partnerships in the community with organizations and stakeholders to improve Community Health. She also serves as a change-agent for equity, diversity and inclusion internally and externally for Memorial Health and Macon County. Sonja is proud of Memorial Health’s commitment to addressing racism, injustices and discrimination. As a certified diversity professional and a victim of racism and injustice, Sonja is committed to being a champion for the advancement of all people, especially those who are often marginalized within our communities.
LaSonja “Sonja” Chargois was born and raised in Decatur, IL. She attended schools in Decatur School District 61 and is an Alumni of Millikin University. Sonja holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis on management and she is also a Certified Diversity Professional and holds Mental Health First Aid certification.
LIGHT REFRESHMENTS:
Light refreshments of tea, coffee ad fruit will be available. Please feel free to come early and network.
MAPS & PARKING:
Follow this link for visitor parking. Please note that guest parking is $1.00 per hour in all of our lots. However, free accessible parking is available right next to Brookens Library. This is available to anyone with a accessibility placard or license plate: https://www.uis.edu/visit/maps
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Pamela M. Salela
E-Mail: cinrc@uis.edu
Phone: 217-206-6783
