Woodrick Center of Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs News and Events

Events

The 30th Annual Diversity Lecture Series

The Diversity Lecture Series provides GRCC stakeholders and members of the Grand Rapids community with tangible access to society’s most prolific scholars, thought-leaders, activists and innovative artists. The lecture series aims to connect members of the community with people that hold a compelling interest in shaping a culture of inclusion and social justice.

For over twenty years, the diversity lecture series has helped attendees consider different perspectives through cultural engagement, critical thought and civil discourse.

Lectures are free and open to all.
American Sign Language interpreter or closed caption service available.
For more information contact WCIMA@grcc.edu.

Events

View all events

Department Events - Upcoming Event cards

Cocoa con Coco Event Image

Cultural

Cocoa con Coco

Thu, Oct 31 2024, 10 to 11:30am

Diversity Lecture Series: Dave Serio Session 1

Cultural | Lecture or Presentation

Diversity Lecture Series: Dave Serio Session 1

Thu, Nov 14 2024, 10 to 11:30am

Diversity Lecture Series: Dave Serio Session 2

Cultural | Workshop | Lecture or Presentation

Diversity Lecture Series: Dave Serio Session 2

Thu, Nov 14 2024, 1 to 2:30pm

Diversity Lecture Series

Speaker at the MLK celebration

Diversity Lecture Series

The Diversity Lecture Series provides GRCC stakeholders and members of the Grand Rapids community with tangible access to society’s most prolific scholars, thought-leaders, activists, and innovative artist.

View the 29th Annual Diversity Lecture Series Line-up

Woodrick Center for Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs News

All News

Nygil Likely

Nygil Likely appointed as new VP for People, Culture & Equity

After conducting a national search, GRCC is pleased to announce that effective June 10, Nygil Likely will serve as our new Vice President for People, Culture and Equity.

A group of girls gathered around big blue GRCC letters.

GRCC and GRPS: Shaping tomorrow’s female leaders together

More than 250 middle school girls from 10 Grand Rapids Public Schools chose to participate in the 2024 GRPS Girls Youth Conference.

People stand on a stage behind a podium at the GIANT Awards.

2024 GIANT Award recipients include representatives from health care, ministry, business

An artist, a state lawmaker and a high school coach are among those receiving honors at the 2024 GIANT Awards.

library

State Legislature approves $16.8 million for GRCC Learning Resource Center

Nov. 15, 2023, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The state Legislature recently approved a supplemental budget…

GIANT awards

Nominations now open for 41st annual GIANT Awards

Nominations are now open for the 41st annual GIANT Awards, which recognize exceptional African American leaders for their contributions to the history, quality of life, and culture of West Michigan communities.

Portrait of Ricardo Tavarez.

Diversity Lecture Series: Rev. Ricardo Tavárez, a GRCC grad who leads New City Neighbors, shares his story

Tavárez is an artist, writer and speaker with Afro-Latino of Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, and proudly part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Graci Harkema speaking at GRCC.

School News Network feature: Graci Harkema shares her story of 'rising from a mud hut to the boardroom'

'If you’re presenting your authentic self, being open and inclusive, that’s what your kids will learn to do.'

Portraits of Maria McKee, Melissa Gheorghiu, Senita Lenear and Penni Wenninger.

GRCC's Salute to Women event honors Maria McKee, Melissa Gheorghiu, Senita Lenear and Penni Weninger for inspiring and empowering

The annual events highlights women for professional excellence, and for serving as role models and mentors.

Students sitting ont he grass near the iconic lion statue.

GRCC reflects on leadership and achievements of women at college and in society with Women's History Month events

The GRCC Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has planned a series of activities throughout the month, focusing on wellness, leadership and support.

Portrait of Dr. Eddie Glaude.

Princeton educator Eddie Glaude Jr. to deliver keynote address at community event celebrating life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

The program is a partnership with GRCC, Grand Valley State University and Davenport University.

GRCC Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion named a finalist for Grand Rapids Pride Center award for supporting 2-SLGBTQ+ community

The Ally to Accomplice Award acknowledges a group or organization that has done the work and made progress on its journey to support the 2-SLGBTQ+ community.

Portrait of Bun B.

Hip-hop artist Bun B to share his evolution from performer to activist, entrepreneur and educator through GRCC, Muse GR partnership

'Our longstanding partnership with Muse GR affords us the privilege of illuminating the contributions and influence of Grand Rapids culture.'

Portrait of Bishop McMurray.

Bishop Dennis McMurray honored for his leadership in the church and community as GIANT Among Giants

McMurray was saluted as a spiritual visionary who brings an array of theological, business, management and financial expertise to his ministry.

Students walking on campus.

Four-day Summer Immersion Experience will help students learn about campus, connect with resources

Created by the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the event runs from Aug. 15 to 18.

Awards on a table awaiting presentation.

GIANT Awards returns after two-year hiatus, commemorating contributions of Grand Rapids leaders, organizations

'It is an absolute honor for the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to rejuvenate this important tradition.'

Photo of several GIANT Award trophies.

Nominations are open for the 39th Annual GIANT Awards

The GRCC Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is accepting nominations for awards and scholarships, including the distinguished GIANT among GIANTs honor. The deadline is Wednesday, June 22..

Portrait of Talib Kweli.

Hip-hop artist Talib Kweli will discuss his memoir in final GRCC Diversity Lecture Series event of the semester

Kweli, a New York native, is a rapper, activist, and entrepreneur and is recognized as one of the most accomplished hip-hop artists.

Portrait of Jamillya Hardley sitting on a fence on campus.

Here to Help: Jamillya Hardley is an advocate working to create a sense of belonging for all GRCC students

'It is always important to note that I hold a role where I can operate as a change agent, advocate for all, and create spaces for conversations that aren't typically happening inside the classroom.'

Portrait of LaTosha Brown.

GRCC celebrates Black History Month with a keynote address from LaTosha Brown, co-founder of the Black Voters Matter

The keynote address will explore the importance and impact of staying engaged in the democratic process of voting at every level.

Nikole Hannah-Jones

Nikole Hannah-Jones, Pulitzer Prize-winning creator of 1619 Project, speaking at GRCC's Diversity Lecture Series

'The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion has a storied history of inviting speakers who compel us to think beyond our comfort.'

Portrait of Cheryl Brown Henderson.

Impact of landmark Brown v. Board of Education case is focus of 2022 Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Day keynote

Cheryl Brown Henderson will speak at Jan. 17 event organized by GRCC, Davenport University and GVSU

Austin Channing Brown.

School News Network feature: Austin Channing Brown starts Diversity Lecture Series discussing faith and equity

'Tell me what you believe about humanity and the world and I will tell you where you stand on racial justice,' Brown said.

Headshots of Austin Channing Brown, John Leguizamo, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and LaTosha Brown.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, John Leguizamo among 2021-2022 GRCC Diversity Lecture Series, Latino Heritage Month speakers

The overarching goal for the year ahead is cultivating equity through an intersectional framework.

Rakim during his discussion at GRCC on Tuesday.

Hip-hop legend Rakim's GRCC Diversity Lecture Series discussion available for viewing

One half of the golden era of hip-hop duo Eric B. & Rakim, he spoke about his influences, artistry, and determination during a wide-ranging discussion moderated by Bakari Kitwana.

Photo of Rakim performing.

Hip-hop legend Rakim to discuss his life, craft at GRCC Diversity Lecture Series

The free virtual event is planned for 6:15 p.m. on April 6. The event is open to the community.

Dr. Michael Eric Dyson

Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, expert on race, religion and contemporary culture, to kick off GRCC’s 2021 Diversity Lecture Series

Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, an internationally known scholar of race, religion and contemporary culture, will kick off Grand Rapids Community College’s 2021 Diversity Lecture Series on Jan. 27.

Yamiche Alcindor

Award-winning journalist Yamiche Alcindor to deliver keynote address during 35th Annual MLK Jr. commemoration

Yamiche Alcindor, award-winning journalist and White House correspondent for PBS Newshour, will give the keynote address during West Michigan's commemoration of the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Bob Woodrick surrounded by friends and family at the dedication of the Woodrick Diversity Center in 2006.

GRCC mourns the loss of Bob Woodrick, a leader in addressing racism, supporting education in West Michigan

Oct. 3, 2020 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Bob Woodrick sought to challenge the hearts and minds of people in…

GRCC Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion saluted by Corp! magazine for leadership, supporting students

Sept. 23, 2020 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Grand Rapids Community College’s leadership in promoting equity…

Students sitting at tables during the 2020 Latino Youth Conference

GRCC expanding partnership with Hispanic Center of Western Michigan for Latino Youth Conference

GRCC will continue hosting the event, an initiative designed to spark interest in college and careers…

English professor Beverly Shannon working with students at a table.

GRCC named a ‘Most Promising Place to Work' for commitment to diversity

The annual award recognizes commitments to diversity through best-in-class student and staff recruitment…

Dr. Yuseft Salaam, wearing a white shirt and blue tie.

GRCC, GVSU, Davenport to host Dr. Yusef Salaam, member of Central Park Five, in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day event

“Dr. Salaam’s story fits succinctly with Dr. King’s words and the program theme: ‘Injustice anywhere…

Apply
See Programs
Pay for College
Visit
Student Resources
- Academics & Aid
- Academic Calendar
- Admissions
- Advising & Transfer Services
- Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Lakeshore Campus
- Search & Register for Classes
- Student Records
- Tuition & Fees
- Campus Life
- Athletics
- Bookstore
- Career & Student Employment Services
- Dining
- GRCC Police
- Honors Program
- Student Life & Leadership
- Study Away
- Veterans Services
- Learning Resources
- Academic Support & Tutoring Services
- Center for Counseling and Well-Being
- Disability Support Services
- IT Support
- Library & Learning Commons
- Student Success
Faculty & Staff
- Common Administrative Resources
- Finance & Administration
- General Counsel
- Human Resources
- Institutional Research
- Employee Directory
- Faculty Information
- Instructional Support
- Provost
- Teaching, Learning, and Distance Education
- Popular Campus Services
- Marketing & Communications
- Facilities
- Grants
- Information Technology
- Media Technologies
Employers & Community
- Business & Employers
- Business & Corporate Training
- Job Training Programs
- Workforce Training
- Campus Resources
- Alumni
- GRCC Police
- Giving
- Purchasing
- Transcripts
- Community
- Lakeshore Campus
- Apply for Jobs
- GRCC Foundation
- Gerald R. Ford Fieldhouse
- Laboratory Preschool
- Printing
About GRCC
- College Information
- Leadership & Administration
- Woodrick Center for Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs
- Schools & Departments
- Student Consumer Information
- General Information
- Accreditation
- Campus Safety Information & Resources
- College Policies
- Vision & Mission
- GRCC en Español
- Visitor Information
- Academic Calendar
- News
- Jobs & Employment
- Locations & Campus Maps