Coming Together for Change
Each and every day, student experiences are enriched by the generous UH giving community. See how these students are paying it forward through the Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) Ambassador Program at the University of Houston. (The CDI Ambassador Program is comprised of students who promote the University’s commitment to diversity and the creation of a global learning community. They help bring individuals and groups of students together to engage with and learn from one another. Ambassadors have multiple opportunities to develop foundational leadership skills and refine personal and professional strengths.)
As a recipient of the Academic Excellence Scholarship, Katherine Lephuoc is grateful that she has been given the opportunity to participate in a program such as CDI. “If I had not received this scholarship, I would not have been able to serve as an Ambassador,” said Katherine. “My family would have had to take out loans, and I would have to work while going to school.” “Now, I am able to concentrate on my studies and also further my development through the CDI Ambassador Program.” Katherine has been a CDI Ambassador for a little over a year and credits the program for helping her become a more well-rounded individual. “When I became involved with the CDI, I came to know diversity in a much broader sense,” said Katherine. “There are many realms of identity, other than race, that exist in our community.” “I have learned how to be sensitive to others and adjust my language so that I am inclusive of others as well.” Currently a Sophomore, Katherine hopes to pursue a medical degree and work in Pediatrics one day. “I hope I have the opportunity to impact someone’s life as much as the University of Houston has impacted mine.”
Originally from Desoto, Texas, Kala Thomas came to the University of Houston as a rather shy, reserved individual. Since serving as a CDI Ambassador, Kala has gained newfound confidence in her abilities. “I was somewhat reclusive when I first came to the University,” said Kala. “As a CDI Ambassador, I find myself talking to all kinds of people.” “I recently began recruiting new students for the program so I have to be confident in my communication skills.” In her new role, Kala has discovered a new meaning to diversity. “I used to think of diversity solely in terms of race.” “I now believe that diversity is a way to celebrate everyone’s unique differences.” A recipient of the Academic Excellence Scholarship, Kala is happy to have the opportunity to show fellow students how to be more inclusive of others. “My scholarship donors have shown they believe in me, which helps me accept people for who they are.” “Through my involvement in the CDI Ambassador Program, I have discovered that I capable of much more than I ever thought possible.”
As evidenced by these students’ experiences, the Center for Diversity and Inclusion empowers students to celebrate and appreciate their cultural heritage and others by offering transformative diverse campus programming and by providing leadership experiences that maximize their potential. If you would like to learn more about the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, you may contact the Center’s director, Niya Blair at 713-743-5972 or email Niya.