Our Commitment to Social and Racial Justice

Our Belief in Racial Justice and Dismantling Systemic Racism  

Our Board and Team believe that:

Diversity is having a variety of identities or characteristics present including race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and socio-economic status. 

Equity is the act of giving a person, or group of people, what they need with focused actions that meet people where they are with differentiated strategies. 

Inclusion is a qualitative measure of representation and participation. Inclusion focuses on ensuring authentic representation, empowered participation, true belonging, and power sharing.
 

  The CCAC Team: Individual Equity Statements     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nancy Peters-Lewis, Executive Director

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to the CCAC?  We believe that there are three different components that work together to broaden our thinking about DEI:  the individual, the organization, and the system.  It starts with the individual team members, is then represented through the organization, and spreads to the system as a whole.  It means learning, implementing, executing, and sustaining action items that foster inclusion and engagement.  It is about recognizing one another, being intentional about having a valued voice, and having genuine, honest conversations around how we treat one another.  DEI means leading with love through:

• Representation of human beings from different perspectives.  Background, thinking and influences will help to impact our mission and map out where we need to go. 
• Understanding that there is a hierarchy of human value that has been created through unjust laws and systemic oppression, and that to break down these barriers, we must create environments that address these systems head on.
• Having a valued voice.  We must uplift individual stories, lived experiences, and share our values and beliefs. 

Diversity and inclusion at its best builds innovation, breeds creativity, and offers a sense of community.  It cannot just be a statement, but rather a living, breathing, growing charge to represent, understand, and create a space for all voices for the individual, the CCAC as an organization, and the system as a whole. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brian Green, Senior College & Career Advisor/Community Initiatives Coordinator

 

The College & Career Access Center builds equity, diversity, and inclusion into the framework of all that we do. From the structure of our advising team to our partnerships and collaborations within the community, we are intentional and committed in our purpose to promote equity and inclusion in every model of service we provide. We recognize the importance of celebrating diversity of race, religion, ethnicity, gender orientation and all choices that represent an individual’s unique and personal life journey. We firmly believe the strongest communities are built upon relationships that draw insight, talent and creativity from every single member. It is the richness of diversity and culture each of us brings to the table that enlightens and broadens the perspectives of all who share in our common experiences.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travis Miller, College & Career Advisor

 

I believe that all people, regardless of their race, gender, sexual identity or other differences, are deserving of respect.  I believe all people have been created equal, but I believe everyone is deserving of equitable support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Megan Pitts, Operations Coordinator

 

As an advisor at the CCAC, I will advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of my interactions with our community, students, and my team. I understand that our diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds along with our different races, ethnicities, and genders allow us to have unique experiences that bring new and innovative perspectives and ideas to every interaction. I firmly believe that every person deserves equitable resources and opportunities that will allow them to be successful and prosperous. Additionally, I will strive to promote inclusivity to ensure that every person feels comfortable, valued, and empowered. I will actively continue to learn how I can improve my advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion so that I can provide the best support for the Jackson community, students, and my team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tevin Mojume, College & Career Advisor

 

I dedicate myself to serving the greater Jackson County community with no strings attached. I will acknowledge and appreciate each individual’s intrinsic value and worth no matter the race, gender, class, or sexuality of the individual. Treating people with equality is important, but treating people with equity is just as, if not, more important. I believe that every individual should have equal opportunity and access to the resources necessary for success. It is our duty to walk alongside and support those who may not have support. It is our duty to create safe spaces for those who do not have a safe space. And it is our duty to take a stand against the injustice that we see in the world today. Together, we can take the necessary steps in order to ensure a brighter future for all of Jackson County residents.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stacy Bell, Finance Coordinator

I am proud to support the mission of an organization that holds diversity and inclusion as extremely high values. As well as an organization that values, and recognizes the difference of, both equity and equality. The College and Career Access Center not only recognizes each individual, their unique situation and the strengths they have to offer, but also provides a safe and respectful space for every unique person to chart their own unique path to success - whatever that may be. The CCAC is an agent of change for our students by providing unique and individualized services, and also for our community by standing up for what is right, voicing successes and putting our mission into action each and every day.

 

We find the following resources provide a wealth of valuable information and insight on diversity, equity and inclusion:  

"Civil Rights Principles for Safe, Healthy, and Inclusive School Climates" 
Promise 54
Color of Change
"How to Manage When Things Are Not Okay - And Haven't Been For Centuries"
The Racism Issue 
Black Undergraduates in Higher Education: An Historical Perspective
National Center for Education Statistics – Historical Data Tables

Racism is a Public Health Crisis