Diversity Takes Center Stage in Oswego
“I never looked at [multiple sclerosis] as career-ending. Mentally, I could go up against anyone in this room.”
Chief Meteorologist for NewsChannel 9 (W-SYR) Dave Longley’s words left a lasting impression on the Sheldon Ballroom Wednesday afternoon. They certainly helped cement the underlying themes of hope, positivity and living and thriving through diversity.
Longley, who was diagnosed with MS in 2005, has been fighting it for 10 years, still continuing to this day.
The bravery, which Longley exhibits is a model for students, but everyone in the world struggling with hardship.
In the weeks leading up to the 11th Annual Dr. Lewis B. O’Donnell Media Summit, the tagline “Walk a mile in my shoes,” was advertised as the main talking point; clearly making reference to the importance of diversity.
Yet, in 2015, diversity has become so much more complex than in the past. Students may have come in expecting to hear about racism and prejudices against certain groups, but they left with so much more.
Just after 3 p.m., the moderator Christopher Collins-McNeil took the stage with Oswego-alum and panelists Michelle Garcia, Kendis Gibson, Jennifer Sanders, and Dave Longley.
Oswego President Deborah Stanley began the summit by acknowledging the man it is named after.
Stanley then quickly shifted direction and began the discussion of diversity in the workplace, specifically referring to skin color.
After President Stanley spoke, it was the panelists turn to speak about their experiences.
Kendis Gibson, a correspondent for ABC News, spoke about how when many anchors talk about a crime they use race as a description when it is not necessary.
Gibson went on to say that he does his best to avoid mentioning skin color when reporting a crime.
Jennifer Sanders, morning and noon news anchor for NewsChannel9 in Syracuse, spoke about her experiences in a previous job.
Longley added his two cents on the topic of diversity in the newsroom and in media coverage.
Gibson and Sanders wrapped up their thoughts by stating we need to have a bigger representation of the minorities in the work place.
Meanwhile, Michelle Garcia, mic.com identities editor, spoke about the importance and expanse of the LGBT community.
The summit wrapped up with some advice from the panelists and proceeded to the career connectors panel, where other former students gave advice to the up and coming. Here are the best tweets of advice:
