Appalachian Advocates play an essential role in fostering a welcoming environment for all students, faculty and staff at App State. Members receive a letter from App State Chief Diversity Officer Jamie Parson, as well as special invitations to diversity and inclusion events on campus.
Current members show their membership through use of the Appalachian Advocates emblem.
Membership Criteria
Each Appalachian Advocate must:
- Agree to the Appalachian Advocates Vision Statement.
- Commit to the following actions:
- Educate myself on issues related to diversity and inclusion.
- Be willing to serve as a mentor, informally or formally, to students from underrepresented groups.
- Intentionally include diverse voices and perspectives in my course design (faculty).
- Help students from underrepresented groups to navigate the university system and identify opportunities and support.
- Advocate for the needs of students, faculty and staff from underrepresented groups.
- Be accountable. To remain an active member, Appalachian Advocates must annually complete, and self-report, via the Appalachian Advocates Membership Renewal Form, the following actions:
- Attend at least one diversity and inclusion training per academic year (training and event recordings).
- Complete at least two of the following per academic year (can be two activities in the same category):
- Diversity and Inclusion Event Attendance.
- Diversity- and Inclusion-Centered Community Service.
- Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Support.
- Additional Diversity and Inclusion Training.
- Diversity- and Inclusion-Centered Research.
- Diversity and Inclusion Course Redesign.
- Walker College of Business Shared Reading Program Participation.
Appalachian Advocates emblem designed by App State alumna Alana Maser ’22
As an Appalachian Advocate:
I commit to fostering a culture that values diversity and intentionally includes people and perspectives from diverse cultures, worldviews, backgrounds, traditions, and ways of life.
I know that diversity takes many forms, including, but not limited to, diversity of Age, (Dis)ability, Cultural Background, Educational Background, Gender Expression, Gender Identity, Geographical Region, National Origin, Neurodiversity, Race and Ethnicity, Religion, Sexual Orientation/Sexuality, Socioeconomic Status/Social Class and Veteran Status.
I believe organizations that value people from a multitude of backgrounds have a competitive advantage in the global industry and that business can empower change on a grand scale when guided by just, inclusive and equitable principles.
I aspire to provide a welcoming and empowering home for every student, faculty and staff member, where all:
- Value diverse perspectives.
- Acknowledge societal injustices toward marginalized groups.
- Recognize and overcome our own biases.
- Use their talents and skills to create a more inclusive and just society.
Questions?
Contact appadvocates@appstate.edu.