Diversity conference to be held on campus this week

By Jenna Youngs

Published April 5, 2005

The Black Business Students Association will sponsor its third annual Diversity Conference on Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. at the Reynolds Alumni Center. The theme is "How Diversity Affects You" and the conference is open to the public, BBSA Secretary Doug Ngomsi said.

He said the organization tried to make the conference's theme relevant.

"We wanted to make the conference appeal to all groups, because it is a factor that affects every individual in every profession and occupation," he said. "We have a diverse group of individuals from several industries coming to share their perspectives."

He said lunch will be provided, and attendees can come and go as they please. A variety of workshop sessions will be held to address different aspects of diversity in the business world, and business professors and professionals will speak.

"Every year, we look to take a different approach and adapt to the progressing climate regarding this topic, as business people must do, in order to cover an array of situations, topics and discussions because it is a certainty that many of us, regardless of background, will encounter them," Ngomsi said.

Ngomsi said the conference is important to members of the organization because diversity continues to be an important issue.

"This conference is important partly because of the recurring emphasis of diversity in education, business, the community and other fields," he said. "BBSA's approach will accent diversity in a professional and corporate environment, highlighting ideal situations and bringing to light other situations that may occur."