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Fall Training Series: Organizational Planning for DEIA

Fall Training Series: Organizational Planning for DEIA

August 2021

Timely Topic!

Over the course of the past months, many organizations have become much more aware of the need to better address issues of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. However, those tasked with leading initiatives aimed at identifying issues within internal structures and practices may feel they lack the necessary skills to do so in a meaningful way. NISO recognizes from its own internal efforts that two things -- commitment and careful planning -- are central to moving such initiatives forward. 

That’s why we are so excited to be offering a new virtual training series, Organizational Planning for DEIA: A 100 Level Course, scheduled to begin on Friday, September 17. The eight week series is specifically intended to support those serving in small or mid-sized organizations who have been tasked with planning and implementing a DEIA program or initiative. 

The goal of this particular training series is to assist such individuals in organizing their thinking by addressing questions such as: What elements need to be considered? What will help lower the barriers to inclusion? Who needs to be involved? How will you measure progress? And more … 

Course moderator Dr. Antonia Olivas (she/her/hers) is the Engagement and Inclusion Librarian at California State University San Marcos (the traditional territory and homelands of the Luiseño/Payómkawichum people). With nearly 20 years’ experience in both public and academic libraries, Toni is also a veteran instructor who thrives on being a life-long learner. She currently teaches DEIA and management courses at various ALA-accredited library schools, as well as consulting for academic libraries across the country on DEIA topics and projects. Toni is the author of Choosing to Lead: The Motivational Factors of Underrepresented Minority Librarians in Higher Education, and of numerous journal articles on social justice.

Also participating in the training are these confirmed guest lecturers: 

  • Dr. Kawanna Bright, Assistant Professor of Library Science, East Carolina University. 
  • Nikhat Ghouse, Associate Librarian for the Social Sciences to the College of Arts & Sciences & Coordinator of the Diversity Alliance Residency Program, American University
  • Twanna Hodge, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Librarian, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida; 
  • Lauren Magnuson, Head of Collections, Delivery and Access, California State University - San Marcos;
  • Mark A. Puente, Associate Dean for Organizational Development, Inclusion and Diversity, Purdue University Libraries

You can find more information — including the course outline, which will be updated with details provided by our guest lecturers in coming weeks — on this NISO event page. The early bird registration rate ends on Friday, September 10, 2021 so don’t hesitate!