Raising Voices, Lifting Leaders: Recap of the Power in Diversity Conference

Students from all over Minnesota gathered on the St. Cloud State University campus on January 26-28, 2018, to attend the 9th Annual Power in Diversity Conference. The conference offers opportunities for personal growth and leadership development to college students of color and underrepresented students through a variety of workshops, keynote addresses, and programs. Inspired by powerful social movements and national political developments, this year’s conference theme “Raising Voices, Lifting Leaders” and programming aimed to answer questions such as how do leaders support one another, what is most needed in our communities, and what resources are available to make change.

Workshop themes encompassed aspects of diversity including: race, gender, and disability. Topics included: gender’s influence on sexuality, multigenerational leadership and the history of racial and social justice, how to become a mental health advocate, and developing your mentorship quotient. One workshop titled “Finding Myself in an Unknown World” explored the leadership journey of a college student who has autism and the ways that the student has overcome obstacles to succeed. Participants were able to engage in authentic dialogue about the experiences of students with disabilities and discussed ways to promote more inclusive environments.

Beyond developing student leaders on college campuses, the Power in Diversity conference also focuses on enhancing students’ skills to successfully navigate the workforce. Every year the conference also hosts a Diversity Job and Internship Fair, which allows students to professionally network with various employers. This year over 80+ employers participated in the job fair. Representatives included: ACR Homes/ACR Healthcare, College Possible, Minnesota Department of Human Services, Peace Corps, and Xcel Energy.

Reflecting on her experience at the conference, LeadMN Vice President, Cecilia Damian said, “It was a great opportunity to connect with fellow student leaders from all over Minnesota and have conversations that we don’t have every day. I appreciated the space to connect with other students on issues that are most pressing in our communities.” LeadMN is grateful to have attended this year’s conference and looks forward to what’s in store for the 10th Annual Power in Diversity Conference.