Athletics launches the Trailblazer Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Working Group

NORTH ADAMS, MA- The MCLA Athletics Department is excited to announce the formation of the Trailblazer Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion working group.  The department is committed to a providing a safe and inclusive environment, respecting differences, and encouraging social change. The department strives to provide opportunities to student-athletes and staff of all races, age, ethnicity, genders, gender expression, religions, sexual orientations, countries of origin, and abilities. 

The working group will be co-chaired by Amanda Beckwith and Arlene Theodore (Associate Director of Diversity Programs).  Beckwith began her new duties as the department's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Coordinator over the summer.  As the coordinator for DEI, Beckwith will spearhead programming for student-athletes and staff to promote awareness, engagement, and spark dialogue.  In addition to those roles, Beckwith will begin promoting the NCAA's One Team initiative and work with national offices when the opportunity arises.  The position is part of a broader action plan by the department to address racial justice, diversity, and cultural awareness within the department.  Beckwith, along with the working group, will assist the department with identifying current issues around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. 

The department has focused on new initiatives to strengthen the MCLA community and provide a better tomorrow for our students.  The department can be a catalyst for positive and lasting change within the campus community and beyond.  Just a few of the initiatives are listed below:

• Educational Programming for student-athletes and staff
• Launching of a DEI webpage as a resource for student-athletes and staff
• Professional Development among staff around racial equity, social justice, and civic engagement
• Collaborate with institutional programs centered around DEI

The DEI webpage is a one stop shopping center for the athletic community.  The page covers upcoming DEI events for students, staff, and campus community members.  The site lists staff professional development initiatives and resources for student athletes.  It also details the working group and provides communication outlets.  To view the webpage, click the link below:

MCLA DEI Webpage

For more information or questions regarding DEI, please contact Amanda Beckwith at a.beckwith@mcla.edu or visit www.mcla.edu. 

MCLA Athletics DEI working group: