All right, everyone, let's meet our next student, Lydia. She's a Biochemistry major with a co major in Pre-Medical Studies. For Lydia bringing diversity, equity and inclusion into every aspect of student life is a priority. Let's hear how she's leading efforts to diversify greek life. Take it away, Lydia.
Hi, everyone. I chose to attend Miami University for its broad range of academic opportunities and it's beautiful campus. My parents are professors at the university, so I grew up attending lectures, concerts and exhibitions. When I was a first year student here, I knew I wanted to get involved on campus, but I was unsure where to start. I attended sprite dates, a get to know sorority event in my freshman year, and then I joined Chi Omega, and I held a leadership position in my sophomore year. This past year, I was elected as Miami University's Panhellenic President, which is the governing body of sororities on campus. I am grateful for encouragement from student leaders that have led me to this point, empowering those who are underrepresented in greek life to get involved is really what motivated me to run for office.
Up until recently, diversity, equity and inclusion had not been a priority of Panhellenic associations across the country. As a woman of color, I have made my own journey fighting discrimination to stand up for myself. My personal experience provides me with a strong desire to support other women the way that I am supported by my peers. This is why I'm so grateful to be in a position to create positive and meaningful change in the greek community. So far in my role, I have led the executive board to revisit and reevaluate the Panhellenic bylaws and the recruitment standing roles. We've created scholarship opportunities to lessen the financial burden, and we work in teams to educate and hold our community accountable. Both the greek and the wider Miami community have embraced our modifications. Our work is far from over, but there are at least 100 cultural diversity centered groups on campus to fight for inclusion. Miami has prepared me to work in diverse environments with the strong liberal arts education, study abroad opportunities, and programming led by student organizations. This is the foundation that makes me a leader, who is competent to advocate for allies, awareness, and acceptance. Although I came to Miami for its beauty and opportunity, I will leave Miami with a growing passion for diversity, equity and inclusion and a commitment to empower others. That's my story back to Alex.
Thank you, Lydia. The work you're doing to elevate the discussion about diversity, equity and inclusion has never been more important. Miami University is obviously preparing students for more than just jobs, it's preparing future leaders who can tackle the most pressing issues. Well done, Lydia, take care.
