Diversity Equity & Inclusion in Hospitality & Tourism SIG

The primary objective of this DEI SIG is to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the realms of hospitality and tourism, encompassing all aspects of operations, theory, and curriculum development.

The Mission: The Diversity Equity and Inclusion in Hospitality and Tourism SIG supports global hospitality educators in the delivery of diversity, equity, and inclusion education, skills, and competencies. The SIG will accomplish this by creating a community of hospitality management educators, industry executives, and learners who are committed to providing high-quality, cutting-edge pedagogy to help prepare students for success in the 21st-century workforce.

Chair Brian Barker Florida International University [email protected]

Vice Chair Miranda Kitterlin-Lynch Florida International University [email protected]

LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

Dear esteemed scholars,

I trust that this email finds you well and that you have returned safely from the enlightening conference. I extend my sincere gratitude to each one of you for taking the time to participate in the inaugural DEI SIG at the ICHRIE conference last week.

For those who may not have been present for my opening remarks, I would like to introduce Robert (CRBE) and Dan (JLL), both esteemed friends and members of AHED, who share a profound commitment to expanding the diversity pipeline. They aspire to make a positive impact on all our respective programs. You can read more about their dedicated group, DREAM, and their mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by visiting this link: here

Please be aware that the DEI SIG encompasses all topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it is essential to understand that AHED operates independently of the ICHRIE DEI SIG. 

A pressing issue that many of our programs are facing is a progressive decline in enrollments. To address this concern, both the DEI SIG and AHED have been focusing on utilizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as powerful tools. To delve deeper into this subject, Miranda Kitterlin and I recently conducted a virtual DEI SIG meeting on May 5th. During this meeting, we had the privilege of hosting Jamie Ealy, one of the co-authors of "POLITICS, POLICIES, AND STUDENT PERSPECTIVES – THE IMPACT OF STATE SOCIAL POLICIES ON COLLEGE CHOICE." I urge you all to read this significant report and share it with your university administrators, as it provides crucial insights into the challenges we face in recruitment. You can access the report here: https://www.artsci.com/studentpoll-volume-16-issue-1

Additionally, I would like to share the presentation that guided our in-person discussion at the conference. You can find it here: DEI SIG ICHRIE Presentation

For a comprehensive understanding of AHED and its membership, please explore the details below. AHED aims to serve as a valuable resource, easing the pressure on your respective programs, especially considering the current intense political climate surrounding DEI.

AHED Membership & Benefits: AHED Membership & Benefits

AHED Newsletter: AHED Newsletter

Furthermore, during our in-person session, I shared information from the following article and presentation regarding the Affirmative Action ruling. Although many of our programs may not be directly impacted, it is crucial to be informed about the ruling and its implications. I encourage you to explore the following resources for yourselves:

Affirmative Action Concerns:

- USC Race and Equity Center Affirmative (Re)Action national forum

- Forum recording and slide deck: https://uscrec.info/affirmativereactionmaterials

- My Forbes article on predicted consequences of yesterday’s SCOTUS ruling: https://uscrec.info/harperscotus

Thank you for your active participation and dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within academia. Please provide feedback regarding AHED or the DEI SIG here: https://forms.office.com/r/hYsTdRD5S3

Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our programs and communities.

With warm regards,

Brian Barker

RESOURCES

Meeting with guest Mr. Jamie Ealy, co-author of POLITICS, POLICIES, AND STUDENT PERSPECTIVES – THE IMPACT OF STATE SOCIAL POLICIES ON COLLEGE CHOICE on Friday, 5 May 2023. - Playback link coming soon.