Mississippi State University organizations are focusing on leadership and diversity among faculty and students by working to inspire and shape future leaders on MSU’s campus.
Tommy J. Stevenson, director of the Office of Diversity & Equity Programs, said the office is continuing to grow to reflect the 25 percent of minority students and the 48 percent of female students that make up part of MSU’s student body.
The Office of Diversity & Equity Programs assists department heads and deans in choosing a diverse faculty.
In MSU’s 2010 strategic diversity plan, President Mark Keenum cited the Office of Diversity & Equity Programs as a vehicle to communicate his commitment to and expectations of diversity.
He said there is progress to be made in regard to MSU’s faculty, administrators and professional staff.
Gregory D. Hunley, the program’s affirmative action specialist, said the office is inclusive and offers students a sense of belonging.
“Students feel valued as part of the MSU community and are led to a path of self-discovery, which sparks leadership and increases their motivation to contribute to worthy causes,” Hunley said.
When asked if the office helps even the playing field for women and minority groups, Stevenson said, “It is a component in providing a vision, but the entire university creates a more equalized environment.”
He stressed the importance of diversity.
 ”It is key to ensure that students are learning from professionals from different backgrounds and cultures,” Stevenson said.
According to Susan Holland, chair for the President’s Commission on the Status of Women and the recruitment, retention and program specialist for the Office of Diversity & Equity Programs, women are naturally progressing into leadership roles and mentoring aspiring females.
Holland said the goal of the President’s Commission on the Status of Women is to provide advocacy, education and leadership opportunities for women on campus.
The commission will have a call for membership within the next few weeks and regularly hosts luncheons that are open to all students and faculty and address topics such as financial planning and benefits for women.
Holland said the commission is increasing its visibility on campus with events like the March 29 lecture, “A Perspective on Leadership: A Path to Success,” presented by Amy Tuck, the executive director of campus operations.
Tuck said she focuses on constructive dialogue as she completes annual reviews and performance appraisals, because leaders should offer deserving praise, ask for feedback and welcome different opinions.
“By finding out our unique talents, we find our leadership potential,” she said. “Don’t be sidelined by failure, be inspired.”
Adrienne Morris, chair for the President’s Commission on the Status of Minorities and a learning and development specialist at MSU’s Office of Human Resources Management, said Tuck’s speech inspired her.
 ”Reading and finding the right mentor are crucial in developing leadership skills,” she said. “From the very beginning, leaders must have values and beliefs, which they can fall back on in difficult situations.”