6. Philosophy: Enhancing Diversity and Inclusiveness

The aforementioned Department of Philosophy was selected based on its impressive record of graduating the highest number of African American doctorates in the country and its contribution to race and feminist scholarship in philosophy. The funds received from the CGS/Peterson’s Inclusive Graduate Community award were used to support the “Ida B. Wells Philosophy Conference,” founded by African American graduate students to promote discussion of philosophical issues arising from the African American experience and to provide a context to mentor undergraduates. Speakers included stellar alumni and notable researchers who shared their experiences with a select group of undergraduate students from across the country. Four of the conference attendees were recruited into the graduate program in philosophy. Moreover, the conference received considerable coverage in the local newspaper serving as the lead article with five photographs. This level of marketing and promotion could not have been achieved without the CGS/Peterson’s Award.

Ida B. Wells Conference in Philosophy
(Photographs courtesy of Dr. Bill Lawson, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy)

Back         Next