Since 2013, the Collaborative Diversity Conference (CDC) has shared Missouri State University’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion to area leaders and businesses.
The 2019 conference theme, “Bridging the Cultural Divides,” continues that mission.
“The conference gives us an opportunity to showcase programs, projects and efforts that promote the value of inclusion,” said Wes Pratt, chief diversity officer at Missouri State.
Irshad Manji
Professor Irshad Manji is the conference plenary speaker. She founded the Moral Courage Project, an initiative to help young people speak truth to power within their communities.
“The goal of Professor Manji’s Moral Courage Project is to address issues in the right way, despite the fears that we may face,” Pratt said. “We are honored to have her for all three days of the conference.”
Manji will speak during many sessions at the CDC.
Pre-conference details: April 24
The conference starts with “Facing Racism in 2019 and Beyond,” an anti-racism, pre-conference workshop. Attendees will learn tactics to combat racism in the workplace and the current social and political climate.
The pre-conference is from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Plaster Student Union (PSU) Ballroom. Registration is $150 and limited to 40 participants.
Following the workshop, Q Enoteca will host a networking event.
Conference details: April 25-26
The CDC begins April 25, with Manji’s welcome plenary at 8 a.m. in the PSU West Ballroom.
Attendees can choose which breakout sessions to attend throughout the conference. View the full schedule.
Standard registration is $250. MSU employees can attend for free.