Fairmont State University Athletics Department Receives WVHEPC Diversity for Equity Grant
Fairmont State University has received $5,000 in grant funding through the West Virginia
Higher Education Policy Commission’s (WVHEPC’s) Diversity for Equity Grant program.
This grant will be used to hold two events celebrating diversity on campus: an International Cookout and a Black History Celebration. Devin Heath-Granger, Associate Head Men’s Basketball Coach, and Mikaylah Glenn, Associate Head Women’s Basketball Coach, are the co-leaders of this initiative.
Fairmont State’s Athletics Department will host the events with the goal of educating the campus community about the different cultural identities within the student body and promoting appreciation and understanding among different groups. The International Cookout, held in collaboration with Fairmont State’s Educational Pathway for International Centers and Students (EPICS), will recognize international students at a tailgating event before a football game with food, music, and informational materials from all countries represented at the University. The Black History Celebration will be held in collaboration with Fairmont State’s Black Student Union during Black History Month and will honor Black History with live music, cultural food, games, and educational opportunities.
“Fairmont State University is home to students from all different backgrounds, beliefs, and identities. We must continue to highlight and celebrate these cultural differences and beliefs to make sure every student feels welcome and has a sense of belonging,” stated Heath-Granger. “The more we can educate others on our differences, the stronger we can be.”
WVHEPC awards Diversity for Equity grants to colleges and universities for equity-focused projects that work to bring about mutual understanding and respect among diverse groups on campus.
Glenn stated she anticipates that the International Cookout and the Black History Celebration will further this initiative at Fairmont State.
“Our hope is that these events bring people together and provide a safe space for everyone to feel comfortable and welcomed,” Glenn said. “We want to recognize, learn, and celebrate all differences in our campus community.”
