In Honor of Black History Month

In Honor of Black History Month

February is Black History Month in the United States. An opportunity to observe, remember and celebrate the events, milestones, and achievements in the lives of Black Americans and the nation. This year’s observance has added significance in the U.S. amid the ongoing struggle for social justice and equity. It is imperative that we continue to listen and learn so we can lead better together.

 Both of my parents were educators in Virginia where I grew up part of my youth and I learned important lessons in school and from my parents about our country’s struggles with racial injustice. Now I am learning from my three children, who give me fresh perspective about current events through the lens of young adults. 

 As CEO of a global technology company, Ellucian, I also am learning from our employees. I am especially grateful for Ubuntu, one of our Employee Resource Groups. The Ubuntu (which means "I am, because you are" and speaks to the concept of "all humanity") group focuses on issues facing the Black community and offers a forum for employees to share information and support each other. During last summer’s historic events in the U.S., Ubuntu played a key role in bringing our community together to listen and learn. Their work continues to resonate, helping educate and support our employees around the globe.

 In the spirit of listening and learning, Ellucian has several employee events planned to commemorate Black History Month. These events were planned with the Ubuntu group and are focused on the themes of Mind, Body and Soul. Along with our “Wellness Wednesdays” and book club, we will have several guest speakers, including Linda Johnson Rice, CEO of Johnson Publishing (publisher of Ebony and Jet). 

 I encourage everyone to take time this month to listen and learn more about Black History Month, as well as the impact of injustice and inequality around the world. I am also interested to hear what other companies are doing to observe Black History Month – let me know by sharing your thoughts below. 

 

Gregory Giangrande

Chief People and Communications Officer at Ellucian: Global Market Leader in EdTech powering the future of Higher Education (Private Equity Partners Blackstone and Vista Equity Partners)

4 年

Proud to have joined an organization with such passion for purpose - and a CEO who leads and inspires by example with authenticity and humility. ?

回复
Jacqueline Welch - CPM,CCPC

Certified Coach / Trainer/ Facilitator / Business Speaker at TIRO Life Coaching "Time Is Running Out!"

4 年

Wonderful message Laura! Change begins with creating the safe space, open mind and the heart to change and ears to listen! Www.tirolifecoaching.com.

回复
Rita Jerman, EdD

Navigating change with confidence | Transforming uncertainty into opportunity | Prosci Certified Change Practitioner | Certified Professional Career Coach

4 年

I'm happy to participate on the Ubuntu Steering Committee as one of the co-leads. We are fortunate to have your listening ear and the support of amazing executive sponsors Chris Collins and Kari Branjord who walk alongside us, support us, and advocate for us.

Shelton R. Welch

Health And Wellness Consultant @ EAP Insurance Companies | Nonprofit Management, Business Analysis

4 年

Excellent, Laura. Thanks for supporting our cause for social and economic justice. Keep up the good work, good trouble!

要查看或添加评论,请登录

Laura Ipsen的更多文章

  • Back to School Lessons on the Importance of Student Experiences

    Back to School Lessons on the Importance of Student Experiences

    By Laura Ipsen After two decades of winding through life with three amazing kids, my last one flew the coop, leaping…

    14 条评论
  • Reuniting to Celebrate Pride!

    Reuniting to Celebrate Pride!

    At Ellucian, community is our strength, and we think of it as our superpower! This month, we are joining the global…

    3 条评论
  • Mental Health is Critical to Student Success!

    Mental Health is Critical to Student Success!

    The state of our mental health has a profound effect on our daily lives, influencing how we work, socialize, and take…

    1 条评论
  • Celebrating International Women's Day

    Celebrating International Women's Day

    International Women’s Day: Breaking Unconscious Gender Bias Today we recognize International Women’s Day with this…

    4 条评论
  • It's All of Us!

    It's All of Us!

    It’s All of Us! Last week, I was honored to lead an employee book club event that included a fireside chat with Steve…

    4 条评论
  • International Women’s Day: Celebrating Trailblazers

    International Women’s Day: Celebrating Trailblazers

    Today is International Women’s Day, a day for celebration and reflection on the contributions and achievements of women…

    1 条评论
  • College Students and the Pandemic

    College Students and the Pandemic

    Earlier this week I had the opportunity to moderate a discussion among current and former community college students…

    3 条评论
  • One Hundred Years and Counting!

    One Hundred Years and Counting!

    Our country marked one of the most significant milestones for women this week with the 100th anniversary of the…

    4 条评论
  • Fighting for Education

    Fighting for Education

    Students have an indomitable spirit, and we have truly seen it come to life these past few months. They have handled…

    5 条评论
  • Our Moment in Time

    Our Moment in Time

    Back in February, I shared a bit about the philosophy guiding my first year as Ellucian President and CEO: Listen…

    2 条评论

社区洞察

其他会员也浏览了