Equity Week
APRIL 15–19, 2024
The Office of Equity and Inclusion proudly presents Equity Week 2024
Please join us on April 15–19, 2024, for Equity Week 2024. Help us make this another successful week in which we celebrate our differences and educate ourselves through conversations of shared experiences, participatory dialogues, keynote speakers, events, facilitated training, and more. We have an action-packed week that includes programming by our students, faculty, and staff. Sessions will help individuals develop and apply personal and professional practices that build an inclusive environment, equitable student success, and employee career growth and fulfillment. We invite students and employees from the MC community to save these dates and come out to celebrate, share, learn, and help educate each other.
Below, view our tentative Equity Week schedule. Events, times, and locations are subject to change at this time.
12:30–1:30 p.m.
Equity Week Opening Day
Welcome by MC President, Dr. Jermaine F. Williams
Opening remarks by Interim Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer, Kimberly Jones
Wendy Gates Corbett, Keynote Speaker and CEO of Signature Presentations, LLC - Virtual Keynote via Zoom
The speaker for this event will deliver a virtual keynote via Zoom. However, the MC
community is invited to view the Zoom in-person at the Theatre Arts Building, TA 156
on Rockville campus.
Description - Today, we welcome our Keynote Speaker, Wendy Gates Corbett, International Keynote Speaker, Professor at Duke University, and author of, The Energy of Belonging. Wendy’s research, which has touched over 150,000 people worldwide, pinpoints the behaviors that foster a genuine sense of belonging within organizations. Her thought leadership is highlighted in her role on the Board of Trustees of Guilford College, her recognition as Business Consultant of the Year, and an Association for Talent Development (ATD) award that honors her contributions to community and leadership
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
1:45 p.m.
Equity Week 2024: Presidential Scholars Program (PSP) Student Dialogue (via Workday)
This is an in-person event held in the Theatre Arts Building, TA156 on Rockville campus.
Facilitated by George Rice.
Lunch will be available for the first 50 registrants.
Description: This dialogue discussion aims to delve into the key concepts presented in "The Energy of Belonging" by Wendy Gates Corbett: Connect, Respect, and Protect, and explore their relevance and application here at Montgomery College (MC). Our opening remarks and keynote will be virtual, followed by a round table discussion with our Presidential Scholars (PSP) Students in the Theater Arts Center, Rm 156.
This event will be available to view via Zoom presentation.
MC Employee registration
Student Registration
3–4 p.m.
TRHT Drop-In Information Session: What is a Racial Healing Circle?
Presentation via Zoom
Facilitated by Rose Garvin Aquilino, Richard Forrest, Dr. Fiona Glade, and Dr. Glenda
Hernandez Tittle
This information session, led by a panel of trained Racial Healing Circle (RHC) facilitators
from MC, will help participants understand how the college's RHCs contribute to the
national TRHT movement. In this safe space, participants will be invited to drop by
to hear about TRHT goals, share their own RHC experiences, and ask questions. If you’ve
thought of attending an RHC and you’re not sure what to expect, this session is for
you!
MC Employee registration
4–5 p.m.
Increasing Student Access and Opportunities through Hispanic Association of Colleges
and Universities (HACU) and Excelencia in Education Partnerships (event flyer (PDF, 
) )
Rockville Campus, SV416
Facilitator: Jury Medrano, Maria Martinez and Dr. Glenda Hernandez Tittle
In this session, presenters will share the history of HACU and the partnership initiatives between HACU and Montgomery College with a focus on the many opportunities for student internships, conferences and leadership programs. Students and staff will share testimonials on their participation and experience with HACU as well as tips and strategies on application processes. Students, faculty, staff and administrators are welcome!
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
10–11:30 a.m.
Open Circle Theatre: Disability Inclusion in Theatre Arts, Rockville campus, in-person
event
Suzanne Richard, Artistic Director
Join us for a dialogue and educational conversation with Open Circle Theatre. Open Circle Theatre is DC’s first professional theatre that promotes careers in the arts for people with disabilities. They create from the principle that disability can enhance the artistic experience, expand aesthetic innovation, and influence a community to become accessible for all. Formed in 2003 by a group of people with and without disabilities, they value building a diverse community and celebrating the uniqueness of each person through showcasing their unique talents and through education.
MC Employee Registration
Students and community member registration
Noon–1:30 p.m.
TRHT Focus group: Let's Listen to Belong!
Rockville Campus, SV416
Facilitated by Dr. Glenda Hernandez Tittle, Ken Nelson, and Jackie Williams
Members of MC's TRHT steering committee want to hear from those who've attended a
Racial Healing Circle (RHC) and from others who have not yet attended one. In this
focus group, participants will hear from RHC alum and others about narrative changes
they would like to see. Participants will be invited to discuss questions about what
it means to belong in a community, to provide feedback about RHCs, and to offer suggestions
for future TRHT activities and events.
MC Employee registration
Student and community member registration
12:15 p.m.
Yoga with Joan
Germantown campus - Room HT 216
Contact megan.cooperman@montgomerycollege.edu to schedule
Event Registration
2–4 p.m.
Antiracism Training: The Journey Towards Becoming an Antiracist Institution
via Zoom
Participants will learn the definition of anti-racism and how to raise awareness and
embrace our role as we shift our college culture by providing access to resources,
updating policies and procedures, hiring and retaining employees, and enabling academic
excellence for marginalized populations.
MC employee registration
4:30–5:30 p.m.
Women in STEM Breaking Barriers (event flyer (PDF, ) )
Germantown Campus, HT building, Globe Hall
Facilitated by Dr. Rebecca Thomas, Ingrid Van Scott, Capparella Jennifer, Dr. Laura
Anna, Dr. Nawal Benmouna
Join us for a compelling panel discussion featuring esteemed women STEM department chairs as they delve into the challenges, triumphs, and future prospects of Women in STEM. This engaging session will explore the unique experiences, perspectives, and initiatives led by these accomplished leaders in their respective fields. From breaking barriers to fostering inclusivity, this discussion promises to inspire and enlighten attendees on the crucial role of women in shaping the landscape of STEM disciplines. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on gender equity in STEM.
MC Employees registration
Students and community member registration
5 p.m.
Readers Theater
Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus, Cultural Arts Center, Gallery Space (CU105)
Facilitated by Dr. Deborah Taylor and Jason Bruffy
We invite you to an afternoon of storytelling and readings including excerpts from Eve Ensler's, The Vagina Monologues that smash the patriarchy one story at a time. This includes readings from faculty, staff and students.
9–4:30 p.m.
Safe Zone Training
Lunch provided
Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus, Cultural Arts Theatre 2, CU208
Gain new understanding of gender, gender identity, gender expression and the diverse range of sexual and affectional orientations. Acquire resources and referral information and practice communication skills for classroom or office discussions or unexpected disclosure. It's your choice about how visible and active to be as an ally after class.
By taking the Safe Zone training, you help foster a welcoming academic environment for students who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender--or questioning identity. LGBTQ students often feel unsafe at school, resulting in reduced attendance to avoid risk, bullying, or bias. Additionally, you can empower students to cope with ignorance or discrimination, build community among peers, and focus on their studies.
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Multicultural Fair (PDF, )
Sponsored by the TP/SS Student Activities Board
Co-sponsored by the Office of Student Life
Charlene R. Nunley, Student Services Center, ST Atrium–Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus
The Multicultural Fair is designed to celebrate diversity and inclusion within our
community. Through a vibrant showcase of various cultures, including exhibits, performances,
and interactive activities, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves
in a rich tapestry of traditions and flavors. The Multicultural Fair aims to underscore
the importance of embracing diversity and fostering inclusion to ultimately cultivating
a more unified and understanding campus community.
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
Noon–8:00 p.m.
"Dear Younger Me: A Journey of Self-Compassion and Empowerment"
The one-time remount of the show will happen all day at the MC Cultural Arts Center
TPSS, CU105
"Dear Younger Me" is an immersive media art installation that serves as a transformative
space for healing, self-compassion, and empowerment for Black women and girls. Through
a 5-minute immersive audio and visual experience, visitors are transported into a
world that affirms and celebrates Black womanhood, fostering empathy and understanding
of the Black female experience while highlighting inner resilience.
"Dear Younger Me" is part of a larger project dedicated to creating healing spaces and opportunities for Black women to engage in self-compassion, community building, and personal growth. The project aims to address the inner child of Black women and girls while providing models of empowerment.
Noon–1:30 p.m
Equity & Tech in the Voting Booth (via Workday)
ignITe Hub, on the Rockville Campus with Voter Registration Booths on each campus
In collaboration with Montgomery College’s Equity Week, the ignITe Hub is hosting a HYBRID event to learn about the intersectionality of equity and technology and the impact on civic engagement. The MC Votes Student Ambassadors will also be onsite to assist eligible community members to get ready for the 2024 election.
Guest Speakers:
- Dr. Gilberto Zelaya, Community Engagement /Public Relations Officer, Montgomery County Board of Elections
- Shannon Roundtree, MC Votes Student Lead, Montgomery College
Lunch will be provided for onsite guests.
2–3:30 p.m.
Montgomery County Lynching Memorial Project Conversation Circle
Rockville Campus, SV 416
Student and Faculty co‐presenters: Noah Agboyibor and Mhambi Musonda, with Dr. Glenda
Hernandez Tittle and Derrick Tabor.
Montgomery County Lynching Memorial Project MoCoLMP) Conversation Circle. Members of both TRHT and MoCoLMP join to provide and overview of their partnership and mission. This session includes student-led conversation circle on the lynchings and dedication markers in Rockville and Montgomery County.
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
4–5 p.m.
Excellence in Equity Panel/Cultural Performances co-sponsored by the Student Government
Association and the Office of Student Life
Cultural Arts Center - Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus, Theatre 1 (CU108)
For directions, use: 931 King St. Silver Spring, MD 20912
Join us for an engaging panel discussion titled Excellence in Equity Panel: A Panel Discussion on College Students' Sense of Belonging. Our diverse panel of college students will share their experiences and insights on creating inclusive spaces, overcoming barriers to belonging, and building supportive communities on college campuses. Whether you're a student, faculty member, or community member interested in fostering a sense of belonging, this event offers valuable perspectives and practical strategies. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from our panelists and contribute to the conversation on promoting inclusivity and connection in higher education.
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
5–6 p.m.
2024 Excellence in Equity Awards Reception
Cultural Arts Center lobby, Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus
Registration is located below.
6–7 p.m.
2024 Excellence in Equity Awards
Dr. Jermaine F. Williams and Trustee Emeritus Kenneth Hoffman
Moderated by Kimberly Jones
Cultural Arts Center, Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus, Theater 1 (CU108)
The Excellence in Equity award recognizes and celebrates students, faculty, staff, and administrators who have demonstrated exemplary accomplishments in advancing equity, inclusion, and diversity. These individuals serve as leaders through their active participation and contributions in making Montgomery College and/or their local community more inclusive by creating an environment where all individuals are valued, respected, and feel welcomed.
9:15–10:45 a.m.
Affordable College for Maryland Dreamers
Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus–Catherine F. Scott Commons, CM 211
Facilitated by Gustavo Minaya
The Affordable College for Maryland Dreamers aims to highlight the challenges and barriers that undocumented students often encounter when seeking higher education opportunities and understanding the available resources and financial aid options that are crucial to ensuring their success.
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
10 a.m.–noon
Truth, Racial, Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) Healing Circle
Focus group will be held via Zoom
Facilitated by Stacey Gustavson and Glenda Hernandez Tittle
A group of 10-20 diverse individuals from the College will meet for one and a half
to two hours to go through a series of activities that help us get to know each other
better. The idea is that if we know each other better as individuals, we break down
the hierarchy of who is important and who is not (hierarchy of human value). By knowing
each other better, we are better positioned to tackle the important policies, practices,
and narratives that are barriers to fulfilling the mission of the College.
Event Registration
11–12:30 p.m.
Inclusive and Equitable practices for Student Success in STEM
Germantown Campus, HT Building, Globe Hall (event flyer (PDF, ) )
Facilitated by Dr. Rebecca Thomas, Dr. Milton Nash, Dr. Vedham Karpakakunjaram, Dr.
Nawal Benmouna
Join us for an interactive workshop during Equity Week, focused on promoting equity in STEM and making these fields accessible to all communities. This engaging session will provide participants with valuable insights, strategies, and resources to foster inclusivity and diversity in STEM education. Through collaborative discussions and practical exercises, participants will explore ways to dismantle barriers and create an environment where every student, regardless of background, can thrive in STEM disciplines. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to the field, this workshop offers an opportunity to contribute to our collective efforts in advancing equity and excellence in STEM education for all.
MC Employee Registration
Students and community member registration
Noon–2:00 p.m.
Rockville MC Pride & Allies Open House
RV Campus - Long Nguyen and Kimmy Duong Student Services Center Lobby
MC Pride & Allies welcomes you to our Rockville open house and information table!
Stop by to meet some of our dedicated members, learn about the resources available
on campus for LGBTQIA+ students and employees, and grab some tasty treats.
MC Employee registration
Students and community member registration
12:15–2 p.m.
Wellness Activities
All employees are eligible to participate in MC Wellness classes. Employees must complete
the Wellness Enrollment Forms, available on the MC Wellness website, to participate. For questions contact megan.cooperman@montgomerycollege.edu
Equity Walk/Run for Students and all Employees, Spouses, and Retirees
Rockville campus
Sponsored by RV Student Life, PHED Exercise is Medicine and MC Wellness
Event Registration
Yoga Class
Takoma Park/Silver Spring, ST302 (Hybrid)
1-2:30 p.m
You Belong Too: Equity Hour student panel
Dr. DeRionne Pollard Student Affairs and Science Building, 2nd floor Lobby
Co-sponsored by Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life
Join the Student Government Association and the Office of Equity and Inclusion for
the "You Belong Too" panel discussion! MC is a diverse community of amazing people
like you. What has your experience been so far in the Raptor community? We would love
to hear your story and discuss more ways to create a safe and inclusive space for
students, staff, faculty, and community members. This event is open to all, so mark
your calendar to not miss this opportunity to connect and promote inclusivity!
You Belong Too: Equity Hour Student Panel co-sponsored by the SGA - Workday
Student and community registration
3–4:15 p.m.
Increasing Belonging and Mattering Through Creating Safe Multilingual Spaces: Hablemos
Espanol! Panel and Hablemos Session
SV416, Rockville Campus
Moderator: Yanira Rodriguez and Dr. Glenda Hernandez Tittle
Panelists: Dr. Ivonne Bruneau-Botello, Vanessa Zambrano, Evelyn Rodas, Stacey Gustavson,
Karl Smith, Jury Medrano
This is a two-part session with the first half hour consisting of a panel discussing the importance and need for the creation of safe multilingual spaces on campus and how this is connected to the College's mission of belonging. The panelists, consisting of representatives from different areas including staff, students, faculty, and facilities, will share their perspectives and experiences on this topic. The second part will include a demonstration on what the Hablemos Español! offerings look like and how others can replicate it to offer it in different languages as well as in different spaces throughout the College.
MC Employee Registration
Student and community member registration
4 p.m.
The Immigrant Chat Circle
Rockville Campus, SV 104A (lower level)
Sponsored by the Student Government Association
Co-sponsored by the Office of Student Life
Facilitated by Hon Lam, Academic Coach
The Immigrant Chat Circle is a supportive and inclusive space established for international students and immigrants to share their experiences, challenges, and successes within a welcoming community. It serves as a platform where individuals can engage in open dialogue, find understanding, and receive support from peers and allies. Through meaningful conversations and connections, the Immigrant Chat Circle aims to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among participants, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse campus environment.
Cultural Night! Hosted by The African Student Association, TP/SS
Co-sponsored by the Office of Student Life
Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus
Cultural Arts, Theatre 1
This event aims to honor, educate, and celebrate our heritage within the Montgomery College community. This event comprises a showcase of various cultures and tribes across the African continent, and we will be representing them through different dances, cultural presentations, songs, a skit, and a fashion show. These cutting-edge presentations will try to illuminate the different cultures that make us who we are.
General Admission - $10
Student Admission - $5
Click here to purchase tickets.
Proceeds from ticket sales will support student scholarships.