Like December, the months of March and April mark seasons of significance for several faith traditions represented in our AU community. These important holidays — Holi, Ramadan and Eid, Lent and Easter, and Passover — will be observed by many AU students and employees. We proudly celebrate the religious diversity on campus and acknowledge the 30+ faith groups represented. Let us be thoughtful and generous to one another as we enter this sacred season.
Even as we celebrate the upcoming holidays, many within our community continue to grieve and wonder how to respond to the ongoing crises in the world, including in Palestine, Gaza, and Israel. The Support Group for Peace and Justice has been formed on campus with the leadership of MESA (the Middle Eastern Student Association) and University Chaplain Mark Woolfington to help process emotions, engage in dialogue, and explore how to respond. All students and employees are invited to gather with this group on March 11 from 4-5 p.m. at the Wackerlin Center.
March is also Women’s History Month, and we invite you to celebrate with us by joining in a conversation that recognizes the accomplishments of first-generation women leaders. We will be joined by AU alumna and Illinois State Representative Barbara Hernandez ’14, ’21 as she talks about her journey and the challenges of being the first in her family to break down many barriers. Gather with us for the final Cultural Exchange of the year on March 19 at noon in Institute 102.
In solidarity,
Justin West
Executive Director, Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action
Chief Diversity Officer |
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The campus community is invited to explore or practice spirituality in the designated sacred spaces on campus. Lowry Chapel, which is located on the third floor of Eckhart Hall, and the Open Rooms and Labyrinth at the Wackerlin Center, are available for all students and employees to use. Please contact University Chaplain Mark Woolfington if you have questions about these spaces at mwoolfington@aurora.edu. |
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Consider reading this thought-provoking resource on the role of diversity in the future of artificial intelligence (AI). This article, titled Diversity is Critical for the Future of AI, dives into the potential bias present in AI systems and the potential risks associated with a lack of diverse voices in their development. As you explore this resource, engage in reflection on its implications for our shared academic endeavors and our students. For example, “What specific contributions can we, as educators, make to promote responsible AI development and usage on campus and in our classrooms?” |
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AU Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT)
The Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) supports the AU community by educating on bias and responding to incidents of bias that negatively
impact or harm any student. When biased-based actions cause intentional or unintentional harm to a student, AU’s mission compels a response. Bias incidents can be verbal, physical, or written and may be based on one's perception of another's gender identity or expression, national origin, citizenship status, body, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. View the reporting form, including a list of the types of bias, here.
See bias, report bias.
If you or someone you know has witnessed or been impacted by a harmful incident of bias, you can receive support from the BIRT team. Click here to learn more. |
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Libby's Place Food Pantry for AU Students
Libby’s Place is an on-campus food pantry available to Aurora University students. Operated by the Wackerlin Center, the pantry is supported by students, faculty, and staff and assists those who are in need of food or toiletries.
AU students can visit Libby's Place once per week. You can place your order online here. Libby's Place is open for pickup on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Wackerlin Center.
If you cannot make it at these times, please email juwest@aurora.edu to schedule a pick-up time.
Tango's Pantry
Tango's Pantry, the student-run pet food pantry sponsored by Unleashed, AU's human-animal studies student organization, also operates out of the Wackerlin Center. Spartans with animal companions are welcome to free dog, cat, and fish food. Tango's Pantry is available to AU students every third Tuesday and Thursday of the month from 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Wackerlin Center. |
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Study Space at the Wackerlin Center
Study space for individuals or groups is available at the Wackerlin Center. Join a study table on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. The Wackerlin Center is open until 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights. |
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Support Group for Peace and Justice
4–5 p.m.
Wackerlin Center Living Room |
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Worship Night
6:30 p.m.
Lowry Chapel, Eckhart Hall |
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Interfaith Dialogue
3:30 p.m.
Wackerlin Center Tucker Room |
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Catholic Mass
7:15–8 a.m.
Lowry Chapel, Eckhart Hall |
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Cultural Exchange Conversation
Women First: The Challenges, and Celebrations of First Gen Success
12–1 p.m.
Institute 102 |
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USHLI Conference
In February, 24 AU students participated in the annual Unites States Hispanic Leadership Institute Conference along with Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills, who was a guest speaker at the Latina Empowerment Breakfast. The USHLI Conference prioritizes the state of Latino education, celebrating Latino culture, Latina empowerment, Latino socioeconomic advancement, Afro-Latino power and influence, the Latino vote, making DEI work for everyone, immigration reform, and honoring courageous and dedicated men and women who are trailblazers, humanitarians, and lifelong servants to the empowerment of the Latino community. |
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Black History Month Recap
This year's Black History Month celebrations helped highlight the Black Arts' impact on the world. They included spoken word and art demonstrations, alumni conversations, and celebrations of Black Greek life. The Office of Black Student Initiatives is thankful for all who attended each event. |
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Aurora University Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action 347 S. Gladstone Ave. Aurora, Illinois 60506 United States You are receiving this email because you are a member of the AU community. To update your email preferences, please Unsubscribe. |
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