Dr. Dan Mahony wants SIU to “become a model for others” in terms of embracing diversity and eradicating systemic racism. | Canva
Dr. Dan Mahony wants SIU to “become a model for others” in terms of embracing diversity and eradicating systemic racism. | Canva
Southern Illinois University System President Dr. Dan Mahony is trying to put an end to systemic racism amid the national unrest after George Floyd’s death, according to KFVS.
“What we’re looking to do here at SIU is make real changes in how we do our business,” Mahony told the station. “[The issue of race] is not a new thing, this is a new place. Are we adequately preparing [students] to live in a diverse world? Are we educating them about the facts about systemic racism and what impact it’s had over time so they have historical and current understanding that’s involved there.”
Mahony added that while he wants to have measurable outcomes, he also wants SIU to embrace the beginning of change.
SIU System President Dr. Dan Mahony
| Illinois.edu
“My second goal is that what we do is successful enough that other people start to copy it,” he said. “That we have an impact on everyone in higher education, everyone in the Illinois area, that we become a model for others.”
Mahony's message comes just after the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) awarded him with the Charles Whitcomb Service Award for his stance on diversity and inclusion in athletics. His message has been strong since he kicked off his role in March and signed the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion Pledge.
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