Diversity Check-In with Dr. Arnold

By Sydney Carroll

Over the past year, our community has become increasingly aware of systemic issues both outside and inside our community relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As BGA moves towards being a more equitable environment for all, it’s essential to spotlight progress that is being made in our community, on both a small and large scale. I had the opportunity to sit down with campus fashionista and all-around great human being Dr. Arnold to discuss her reflection on last year, and plans for the upcoming year. 

*responses edited for length and occasional clarity

Me: A year after Black Lives Matter blew up around the country, have you seen an increase of student engagement  in issues of DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion] on campus?

Dr. Arnold: The Black Lives Matter movement has sparked positive change in our country as well as in our community. It has been the catalyst for forming our Student Diversity Leadership Committee and other diversity initiatives at BGA. I feel like the initiatives have been well received by our student community. Students seem to want to see more positive changes and have more involvement in the initiatives we have developed from our strategic plan.

Me: How has the administration pivoted to increased calls for action in DEI over the past year?

Dr. Arnold: The administration has been very intentional about DEI. We hired a Diversity Consultant, Dr. Derrick Gay to help us move the ball forward with our diversity initiatives. We have engaged our faculty and staff with professional development opportunities and diversity training. The administration has been very supportive to me as the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion by allowing me to select a DEI Coordinator in each division to assist me throughout the school year. They all have different roles and responsibilities for their division but we are all working together towards one common goal.

Me: What are your plans for the upcoming year?

Dr. Arnold: One of my goals this year is to heighten awareness of intercultural experiences at BGA. We are working on continuing to create a more equitable and inclusive school. We will continue to celebrate National Heritage Months and include guest speaker opportunities during Assembly time. We will continue building relationships with the local community to engage our students in diversity initiatives in the Franklin community. We will also continue exposing students to local Historically Black Colleges and Universities and assisting students of color with application to diversity scholarship opportunities.

Me: How would you encourage interested students to get involved in DEI initiatives on campus?

Dr. Arnold: I would encourage students to sign up for the Bridge Club which is a club that meets weekly during club time. They lead discussions on current issues in the media and diversity topics. I would also encourage students to apply to serve on the Student Diversity Leadership Committee. 

Me: What are tangible things our community can do to improve DEI in our everyday campus lives?

Dr. Arnold: I think tangible things to do to improve DEI in our everyday campus lives would be to have more Representation of People of Color during community events and assembly. Also, making sure photos around campus and books in the library are diverse and are a representation of the student body. Also, just being a part of the conversations that are dealing with Diversity. My door is always open for students to talk to me about ideas they have for our campus community.