Being Men of Color: Alumni Panelists Connect with Students
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LUMNI, students, and faculty who are men of color gathered on the Island in October for an evening sponsored by the Pelican Peer Support Network, an organization that provides cultural, social, and academic support to students in their transition to Loomis. The gathering, including an alumni panel discussion, helped to establish connections among the affinity group and enabled students of color to interact with mentors who can relate to their situations and offer advice. Representing a 40-year span of classes, the alumni shared their experiences as men of color at Loomis and at other educational institutions as well as in their professional and personal lives. The
panel was moderated by faculty member Elliot Dial. Panelist and Trustee Eric Cliette ’84 said coming to Loomis was a defining moment in his life, and he encouraged the young men in attendance not to make light of the opportunities that the Loomis experience offers. Other panelists urged students to step out of their comfort zones and try something — an activity, sport, or class — that is different or challenging so as not to miss the chance for a rewarding experience. The alumni also discussed their lives as men of color after graduating from Loomis. “Even today there are times I’m the
only person of color in the room or at the table,” offered Lawrence Davis ’84. “Don’t be afraid to be that only person.” Along with Eric and Lawrence, panelists included Sajed Kamal ’65, Aaron Jubrey ’95, Michael Jordan ’96, and faculty member Neil Chaudhary ’05. Pelican Peer Support Network assistant director and teaching fellow George Ramirez says the evening was empowering for the students, alumni, and faculty in attendance. “It was clear that [the attendees] are excited to contribute in a unique way to the school,” he notes.
Alumni, faculty, and students of color posed for a photo in the Nee Room: Neil Chaudhary ’05, Lawrence Davis ’84, Aaron Jubrey ’95, faculty member George Ramirez, senior Cobey Adekanbi, junior Chris Cortazar, Michael Jordan ’96, Eric Cliette ’84, sophomore Brener De Souza, sophomore Sincere Tuitt, junior Luis Guererro, sophomore Aaron “Deuce” Ford, faculty member Elliot Dial, Sajed Kamal ’65, senior Marcus Witherspoon, junior Derrick Garcia, and junior Isaac Guzman. Photo: Fred Kuo
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