Diversity, Culture and Inclusion Class Visits New York and Boston

By Glenn Randolph

Motlow Buzz Contributing Writer

            NEW YORK CITY -- Motlow is leading the way in Tennessee for Diversity, Culture and Inclusion, not just in their diverse student body but also with Dr. Phyllis Adams’ interdisciplinary studies class (IDS 1022 Culture, Difference and Empowerment).

            This is the only class of its kind on any Tennessee community college campus. The class gives students the opportunity to learn from each other’s stories in a comfortable environment. This class will not just get you out of your seat, but outside of the campus to experience culture in its truest forms.

            One such experience happened April 5-9 when the class traveled to New York City and then to Boston to present at Harvard University to Dr. Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot (a 40-year tenured professor who was also the first lady of color to be tenured at Harvard). While in New York, classmates were right in the middle of it all, staying on Times Square and being totally immersed in many different cultures, foods and languages.

            “We also had the opportunity to catch a few Broadway shows, including 'To Kill A Mocking Bird' starring Jeff Daniels, and 'Mean Girls' written by Tina Fey,” said student Glenn Randolph.

            Here is a video montage of the New York part of our trip: 

            “We went from New York to Boston where we got to explore Harvard and the Cambridge area,” Randolph added. “The last day was our shining moment when we presented to Dr. Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot. For an hour and a half, we got to present to her our shared experiences throughout the semester and were able to gain her insights on provocative questions inside us. When I started college at 40 years old a few years ago, I never thought it would take me to so many wonderful places and experiences. We all need electives, and I highly recommend Dr. Phyllis Adams’ Diversity, Culture and Inclusion class found under Interdisciplinary Studies.

(Editor’s Note: Glenn Randolph recently graduated from Motlow State Community College. Here is a link to Glenn's video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjMVF9MOnQI )