Sept. 5 — Hispanic Heritage Month

Join us to kick off the academic year with a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which is held annually Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.

Dr. Yunuen Gómez-Ocampo will give a presentation on this month’s national theme of prosperity, power and progress in America, recognizing the significant strides of Hispanics in the economic, political, and social growth of the United States. Dr. Gómez-Ocampo is an instructor of Spanish at UA and received her Ph.D. in Hispanic Literature from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her research focuses on 20th century and 21st century Latin American, Latinx and Caribbean studies, cultural studies, migration studies and gender theory.

Breakfast will feature scrambled eggs, Mexican chorizo, breakfast potatoes, flour tortillas, fruit, and beverages. More information: diversity@ua.edu or 205-348-2053.

Oct. 3 — LGBTQIA+ History Month

In celebration of LGBTQIA+ History Month, Dr. Stephanie Anne Shelton, associate professor of Qualitative Research in the College of Education, will talk about the impact of the month on higher education and share her personal story, research and books. She also will share ways to support the month and become an LGBTQIA+ ally. Join the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for this conversation and enjoy biscuits, eggs, sausage and beverages.

Nov. 7 — Native American Heritage Month

In recognition of Native American Heritage Month, Dr. Ted C. Nelson, director of Moundville Archaeological Park, will share information about the History of Native American Heritage Month, the role of Moundville Archaeological Park, and the Native American Heritage month exhibit Sports and Games.

Dr. Nelson graduated from The University of Alabama in 2020 with a PhD in Anthropology. He has been involved with research at Moundville since 2012. His most recent project was excavations along the riverbank prior to a project by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to stop erosion of the park caused by climate change and industrial river traffic. Prior to becoming director, he worked for the Office of Archaeological Research, which is also part of UA Museums and is housed in Moundville Archaeological Park.

Dec. 5 — Winter Holidays

The December meeting will highlight various holidays, customs and traditions in celebration of the 2023 holiday season. This program will have several speakers focusing on holidays such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and more. Participants will learn background information concerning the holiday, participate in activities, be exposed to demonstrations and additional ways to celebrate. Breakfast will be provided.

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January — no meeting

Feb. 6 — Black History Month

This month’s Diversity, Coffee and Conversations will focus on Black History Month and the month’s national theme “African Americans and the Arts.” Guest speaker will be Dr. Alexis Davis-Hazell, assistant director of undergraduate studies and assistant professor of voice and lyric diction in the UA School of Music. A mezzo-soprano, Dr. Davis-Hazell is the current president-elect of the National Association of Teachers of Singing.

March 5 — Women’s History Month

In recognition of Women’s History Month, the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will host Diversity, Coffee and Conversation focused on the 2024 theme: “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” The theme recognizes women throughout the country who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions. For more information, contact the Intercultural Diversity Center at ua_idc@ua.edu.

April 2 — no meeting

May 2 — TBA