DUNMORE, Pa. – Over the past few years, Penn State Scranton has challenged itself to create a more diverse and inclusive environment that is reflective of its “Welcoming Campus” motto. Today, those objectives are more relevant than ever, given the country’s current reckoning with systemic racism and injustice.
Campus Coordinator of Multicultural Programs Dharti Ray, takes those responsibilities very seriously.
Last year, Ray returned to her alma mater to take on her new role. In that time, she’s overseen a variety of unique and thought-provoking multicultural student programming, including the campus’ innovative Diversity Circles.
The job is multifaceted and always evolving – especially now in the wake of the national protests that followed the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. Since then, the University has vowed to further prioritize diversity and social justice initiatives in an effort to be a more equitable, inclusive institution.
“My responsibility is to provide the Penn State Scranton community with the opportunity to be involved in the work of diversity and inclusion,” Ray said. “For students, my role is to create inclusive spaces where they are able to express themselves and celebrate differences. Diversity and inclusivity create a more welcoming environment for our students.”
A campus student before going on to receive her bachelor’s degree from University Park’s Smeal College of Business, Ray has coordinated a number of diversity-themed events over the last year, including the International Bazaar, MLK Day Luncheon and Excellence in Diversity Awards, Diwali, Holidays Around the World, Women’s Equality Day, and the Diversity and Inclusion Forum. That work has allowed her to foster tight bonds with many of the international and minority students who make up nearly 23% of the campus’ student population.
In addition, Ray regularly sends the campus community informative emails promoting awareness of various multicultural holidays.
It’s a role she was well-positioned to step into. As a campus student, Ray co-founded the Indian Student Association and served as a Lion Ambassador, Student Activities Fee committee member and New Student Orientation (NSO) leader. She also worked as a front desk assistant in the Learning Center.
“I have experienced the diversity and inclusive environment on the campus as a student, which truly made me feel at home. And I have only seen Penn State Scranton grow in its commitment to being a welcoming campus. As a student, I felt accepted here and I continue to have the same feelings,” said Ray, who was born in India.