Siena Heights has created its first institute: the Ethnic & Gender Studies Institute, which will be directed by Associate Professor of English Julie Barst. It will build upon our current EGS minor program of study, and work closely in partnership with Sharese Mathis in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, various student groups, and the Adrian community. 
 
The Institute will serve students, faculty, and staff in an interdisciplinary fashion by further helping our community explore the ways that race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality are constructed within society and influence our lives in powerful ways. It will highlight the strong dedication of both Siena Heights University and the Adrian Dominican Sisters to fighting for social justice, spreading education and awareness to all members of our communities, and combatting discrimination in numerous forms. And it will bolster Siena’s mission “to assist people to become more competent, purposeful, and ethical through a teaching and learning environment which respects the dignity of all.” 
 
The Institute will also offer a film and speaker series and expand educational opportunities in numerous curricular areas. If you have questions or would like further information, please contact Julie at jbarst@sienaheights.edu.