CMU-Q promotes culture of diversity, inclusion through global campus travel

A group of faculty and staff members from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar traveled to Kigali, Rwanda to make meaningful connections within the CMU global community. Led by CMU-Q staff members Kranthi Sangishetty and Mohammed Al Khudari and organized by Hope Rodefer and Angela Ng, the 16 participants forged deeper bonds with one another, connected with the CMU Africa campus, and learned about the history and resilience of Rwanda.

The trip is part of a larger university effort to cultivate diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) within the campus community. Kira Dreher, associate dean for DEIB at CMU-Q, highlights how profoundly the experience affected participants.

“This trip was an opportunity for members of the faculty and staff to share lived experiences, deepen their cultural awareness, and form connections with their counterparts at the CMU Africa campus,” said Dreher. “These staff and faculty connections both sustain and strengthen our campus, bringing together members of the community who might otherwise have very little opportunity to interact.”

“Throughout the year, we provide thoughtful programming for the community to promote, among other things, a more understanding and empathetic community,” said Dreher. “Global travel experiences like the trip to Rwanda are especially impactful programs for building a durable social fabric on our campus.”

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global institution based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Qatar campus is an exceptionally diverse community, with faculty, staff and students from six continents. CMU Africa empowers future engineering leaders in Africa by providing a world-class educational experience.