Archive Posts
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In the News: Patricia Conde-Brooks on Hispanic Heritage Month
Diversity, Equity and InclusionPatricia Conde-Brooks, executive director of campus inclusion and community at the University of St. Thomas, recently joined WCCO Radio to talk about the importance of inclusion as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. From the story: “Latinos are here to stay in Minnesota. Right now, we make up about 6% of the population in the state…
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In the News: Yohuru Williams on the Importance of Committing to DEI Efforts
In the NewsYohuru Williams, history professor and founding director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Thomas, recently spoke with the Star Tribune about concerns that companies are losing momentum in their approach to diversity, equity and inclusion programs. From the story: George Floyd’s murder by police in 2020 created an urgency in many… -
MA in Diversity Leadership Envisions New Era of Professionals
Diversity, Equity and InclusionDr. Paola Ehrmantraut believes in the power of inclusive space. The director of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies and the Endowed Chair in Humanities at the University of St. Thomas, Ehrmantraut is on a mission to produce space where everyone is welcome – whether that’s in the classroom, the break room or the boardroom. “When… -
In the News: KSTP-TV Speaks to Rob Vischer Regarding Inauguration
In the NewsOn Friday, May 12, Robert K. Vischer was inaugurated as the 16th president of the University of St. Thomas, after spending the past 18 years as a professor and dean of the School of Law. 5 Eyewitness News (KSTP-TV) recently spoke with Vischer about his vision for the university, some of the challenges facing higher… -
‘An Immediate Bond’: Tommies Give Back to Their Latino Community
People & CultureWhen Cesar Osvaldo Mendez Portillo ’23 walks into Risen Christ Catholic School, there’s absolutely no doubt that he’s beloved by its students. For days, young voices have been heard asking, “Where’s Cesar?” Now that he’s finally returned, their eyes light up and smiles fill the room. The University of St. Thomas senior began volunteering three… -
Breaking Bread and Stereotypes: St. Thomas School of Law Hosts Second Iftar Dinner
St. Thomas 2025 - Foster Belonging and Dismantle RacismThe University of St. Thomas School of Law was aglow with activity as it co-hosted its second annual Ramadan iftar dinner Wednesday, April 12, in the Schulze Grand Atrium on the Minneapolis campus. “This (event) is important because this is our religion. To me, religion is the most important thing to a person,” Noor Dastagir,… -
Reflection: The Lessons of Ramadan
President's OfficeOur mission compels us to build a St. Thomas culture in which members of all faith communities can thrive. This requires a much more robust vision than interreligious “tolerance” can provide. If we aspire to build relationships across religious differences and support one another on our respective faith journeys, we must understand – not simply… -
Black Men Teach: Filling a Critical Gap
St. Thomas 2025 - Foster Belonging and Dismantle RacismFor University of St. Thomas elementary education major Brendon Sackey, today's math lesson was proving a unique challenge as a student teacher. His class of fourth graders at University Avenue Elementary in Blaine were supposed to be focusing on perpendicular and parallel lines. However, these young minds seemed all too aware that in a few… -
New St. Thomas Master’s Program Aims to Build Inclusive Leaders
Diversity, Equity and InclusionThe latest master’s degree program offered by Minnesota’s largest private university addresses a growing need for organizations seeking more leaders who can effectively implement diversity, equity and inclusion strategies. The University of St. Thomas’ Master of Arts in Diversity Leadership, which was developed in consultation with Twin Cities business leaders and hiring managers, is now… -
In the News: St. Thomas Prominently Featured in USA Today Special Edition for Black History Month
In the NewsEach year, USA Today publishes a special edition celebrating Black History Month. This year, with the 50th anniversary of hip-hop on the cover, the University of St. Thomas provided expert commentary for multiple stories. Executive Vice President and Provost Eddy Rojas and College of Arts and Sciences Professor Paola Ehrmantraut provided insight into the development…