The Honors College is sponsoring a new series in spring 2023 titled, “Pathways to Equity and the Dynamics of Change.” While the topic of equity is not a new one, it gained renewed interest after President Biden issued Executive Order 13985 on inauguration day, requiring the federal government to address equity as part of its mission by improving access in existing and future federal programs. The challenge involves identifying who is impacted and, at the same time, making improvements.
While the federal government is mandated to address and improve equity, others are voluntary. This series was organized to showcase research, projects, and programs that demonstrate innovative approaches and achievements in addressing equity within and around Houston.
Many of the speakers are affiliated with the University of Houston which houses one of the most diverse student bodies in the United States, making the topic particularly salient. Others have achieved national and international recognition for their work in removing barriers to achieving equity. The series includes projects and programs that address racial and ethnic equity in higher education, criminal justice, health, and the environment.
The series of talks is open for anyone to attend and is designed to provide an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and the community to learn more about ways in which we can address inequity productively and creatively inside and outside the classroom. Faculty can incorporate sessions on relevant topics into their curriculum for students to learn about ways of achieving equity. Readings on the topics are posted on the website, and each of the talks will be recorded and posted on the website.
The series was designed by Michelle Belco, J.D., Ph.D., lecturer in political science and full-time faculty in the Honors College, and is funded by the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center for Ethics and Leadership at the UH Hobby School for Public Affairs.
RSVP for the talks here.
