Dean Majid Whitney Shares About Campus Inclusion & Community and Black History Month on WSOU’s Thank God for Monday Radio Show
Monday, February 14, 2022
Dean Whitney joined the Seton Hall community 14 years ago and currently serves as the Assistant Vice President and Senior Associate Dean in Student Services. His previous roles have included Associate Dean and Director of Educational Opportunity Fund Programs, Assistant Dean of Freshman Studies (Center for Academic Success), and Director of the General Studies Program. Dean Whitney earned a B.A. from Oberlin College and an M.S.W. from Rutgers University.
When asked about how he would describe himself as an administrator, Dean Whitney shared how important it is to "lead with empathy and help others recognize the opportunities they have to become better versions of themselves." He emphasized five minutes of our time can change the scope of someone’s existence…none of us are finished products."
When asked about student success at Seton Hall, Dean Whitney recommends all students "think about who [they] are, and all that [they] can become." Seton Hall is a "place [where] you will feel loved, nurtured and challenged, but also feel supported to explore the possibilities ahead." Dean Whitney has embraced his role of assisting Seton Hall students in unlocking their full potential and navigating the course of their academic journeys and beyond. His philosophy is drawn from a Latin proverb, "What we do in life echoes in eternity." He challenges every student to "make the most of the best years of their life while at Seton Hall and watch what marvels unfold in the process."
Dean Whitney also shared the significance of Black History Month. He feels that Black History Month should "not just be celebrated in February but every month. Black History Month is our chance to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and beyond, while celebrating the contributions and immense impact on society that African Americans and Black people have had across the country and the world. We should acknowledge the deep struggles and adversity, but also celebrate the beautiful things that come out of those struggles and adversity, including innovation, technological advancements, and enlightenment."
Dean Whitney encouraged students, faculty, staff, and administrators to explore more about Black History Month through the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion website, weekly and monthly emails, and training opportunities. There are also several resources through the Seton Hall University Libraries. To learn more about Black History Month, please email visit the website or email [email protected].
Listen to the entire podcast here!
Categories: Campus Life
