Carnegie Mellon celebrated the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in February with a daylong series of events and activities.
President Jared L. Cohon, chair of the university's Diversity Advisory Council, began the celebration by presenting the progress the university has made in its efforts to increase diversity on campus. He stressed that a diverse university community enhances the intellectual development, growth and work of students, faculty, researchers and staff. Diverse backgrounds and perspectives produce enriched outcomes, making the university a better place to learn, work and live.
President Cohon reported that applications from underrepresented minority groups are on the rise, minority student enrollment has increased and the percentage of women in computer science and the sciences has increased dramatically over the past few years. He also noted that the university still has many problems areas, including a lack of women and minorities in key administrative and faculty positions. The Diversity Advisory Council's annual report is available on the Web.
Cohon also awarded the first "Barbara Lazarus Award for Culture and Climate" to the late Barbara Lazarus, who served as associate provost for Academic Affairs. Lazarus worked to increase educational opportunities for women in science and technology. Her husband, Marvin Sirbu, professor of engineering and public policy, accepted the award on her behalf, reminding those in attendance that "nothing happens until we start," which President Cohon agreed was a fitting sentiment for celebrating both Lazarus and Dr. King.
Other events during the day included the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Creative Writing Awards, a panel discussion on "Confronting the Evils of Racism, Economic Exploitation and Militarism," a candlelight vigil and a keynote address by Dr. Mary Frances Berry entitled "Where Do We Go from Here: Human Rights in Crisis Times."
