Current Event


Black History Month

Black History Month

Black History Month Program by Unexpected Virtual Tours for Baker College on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 @ 5:30 PM.  We will explore the life and work of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Journalist and historian of African American culture and achievement, considered the Father of Black History Month and Dr. Mamie Clark, Psychologist and co-creator of social studies of African American children.  This event promises to be both engaging and informative for all.  Here is the event registration form.

 

 

Past Events

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Select a year below to view the Events held in that year.

2023-2024 Events

Misunderstood Panel

Misunderstood Panel - What is Restorative Justice and Why Should it Matter to You.

After being charged with a crime, the person becomes labeled by their offense, privileges are lost, and access is denied, from financial aid to the right to vote and beyond. These restrictions can lead to a pattern of re-offending and/or a cycle of crime. With Restorative Justice week being observed November 20 - 26, the DEI Council invites you to learn about restorative justice from this esteemed panel of professionals:

Christine Gilman, Executive Director at Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan 
Kathie Gourlay, Founder, Friends of Restorative Justice 
Angel McKissic, Founder, Metro Detroit Restorative Justice Network
Barb Van Loon, Program Director of Criminal Justice, Baker College

DEI Unity Summit

DEI Unity Summit:  "Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice No Matter What!”

To reaffirm our intentional and ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice work at Baker College, we hold an annual summit to discuss important and timely topics with the intention of building DEI capacity within the Baker College community.
 

DEI Unity Summit at Location

 

International Pronouns Day

International Pronouns Day

At Baker College, we want to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable bringing their full and authentic selves to school or work. Using the correct pronouns is the easiest way to show your respect and support for someone. Any individual outside of the transgender and nonbinary community that uses the correct pronouns for those around them signals that you are a safe space and can be trusted. There are a few actions you can take to show your support right now!

 

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Learn more about the items in your Hispanic Heritage Month bag, discover where Hispanic and Latinx heritage is being celebrated throughout the year in Michigan, and find a Hispanic owned business around your Baker campus by clicking the links below.

 

 

2022-2023 Events

Pride Month

Pride Month

Pride Month and Pride Events in your area during June

Women's History Month - Kimberly Dark

Women's History Month - Kimberly Dark

Professor, Author and Storyteller Kimberly Dark uses engaging storytelling to make complex ideas relatable.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Justice Essay Contest

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Justice Essay Contest

Congratulations to all the winners! View the MLK Social Justice Essay Contest Winners.

Unity Summit

Unity Summit Online

Gratitude and Traditions Celebrating Native American Heritage

Keynote Speaker: Ashley Gravelle, Cultural Healing Educator, Sault Ste Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians

Veterans Day

Veterans Day

A Veterans Day tribute from the students and staff at Baker College.

Watch the Veterans Day Tribute video »

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month

Learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month. Watch the interactive Hispanic Heritage Month presentation.

View the Hispanic Heritage Month interactive presentation »

Misunderstood panel

Misunderstood Panel

Perspectives on Mental Health Within the LGBTQ+ Community

Misunderstood Panel event, inviting experts and professionals across our communities to speak on a variety of topics focusing on groups and communities within society that are routinely stigmatized, misunderstood, and marginalized.

Our esteemed panelists include:
Dr. Joe Kort, Licensed Sex and Relationship Therapist
Dr. Alison Chrisler, Professorial Lecturer, Dept of Health Studies at American University
Dr. Tina Timm, Associate Professor, School of Social Work at MSU
Dr. Christopher Belous, Director of Couple & Family Therapy Graduate Program at Purdue University Northwest

2021-2022 Events

Pride Month

Pride Month

Learn more about Pride Month. Watch the interactive Pride Month presentation.

View the Pride Month interactive presentation

 

Asian American Month

Asian American Month

Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Month with Kara Waggoner's demonstration of Asian cooking at the Muskegon CIM Campus.

Watch the AAIP CIM Cooking Demo »

 

Misunderstood panel

Misunderstood Panel, March 22nd

Critical Race Theory: Intersectionality of Race, Law and Education

Misunderstood Panel event, inviting experts and professionals across our communities to speak on a variety of topics focusing on groups and communities within society that are routinely stigmatized, misunderstood, and marginalized.

Our esteemed panelists include:
Rev. Wende II Anthony, President of NAACP Detroit
Judge Cylenthia LaToya Miller, Third Judicial Circuit Court
Victoria Burton-Harris, Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Washtenaw County
Mary Jane Evink, Executive Director, Instructional Services, Grand Haven Public Schools
Julie Hurwitz, Civil Rights Attorney

Womens History Month

Women's History Month

March is Women's History Month. The 2022 year's theme was "Celebrate Women in History". There were 11 presentations provided by colleagues, faculty, students and alumni about the women who inspire us along with a were featured video.

View the Celebrating Women's History Month video »

 

Black History Month

Black History Month

February is Black History Month. Each Year Baker College’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council invites all students to participate in the annual “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Justice Award” essay contest in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Congratulations to the following 2022 MLK Essay Contest winners: Gage Hess, Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts, Jacqui Simmons, Bachelor of Science - Nursing, Jessica Myers, Bachelor of Science - Nursing, Kalea Barnes, Associate of Applied Science - Baking and Pastry, Kelsey Smith, Associate of Applied Science - Diagnostic Sonography, Leza Isadora, Master of Science - Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Mecole Patterson, Bachelor of Business Administration - Marketing, Megan Pastoor, Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapist Assistant, Melissa Surratt, Master of Business Administration - Healthcare Management, Shanna Bonillas, Bachelor of Science - Nursing

View the Baker College MLK Essay Contest 2022 video »

 

Celebrating Diversity During the Holidays

Celebrating Diversity During the Holidays

Baker College DEI Council and DEI Chapter worked together to create a Holiday Cookbook featuring entrees, sides, breads, desserts and more.

Download DEI Holiday Cookbook

View the Holiday Message video »

Veterans Day

Veterans Day 2021

Veterans Day message from the Baker College DEI Council.

View the Veterans Day message video »

Misunderstood panel

Misunderstood Panel

Barriers of Voting: Know Your Power

Misunderstood Panel event, inviting experts and professionals across our communities to speak on a variety of topics focusing on groups and communities within society that are routinely stigmatized, misunderstood, and marginalized.

Our esteemed panelists include:
Poppy Sias-Hernandez, Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer, Executive Office of the Governor, Executive Dir., Office of Global Michigan
Judge Cylenthia LaToya Miller, Third Judicial Circuit Court
Padma Kuppa, State Representative, 41st District, Troy & Clawson
Jamie Lyons-Eddy, Deputy Director, Voters Not Politicians

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month 2021

Baker College Culinary Institute of Michigan (CIM) shares hispanic recipes in Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

View the Hispanic CIM recipes video »

2020-2021 Events

Womens History Month

Women's History Month

March is Women's History Month. The 2021 year's theme was "Women Who Inspire You". There were 14 presentations provided by colleagues, faculty, students and alumni about the women who inspire us. Here is a sample of the 14 women honored.

Chef Amanda Miller, CIM Faculty, honored by CIM Muskegon

"Chef Miller is the heart and soul of our building. She is the first to volunteer for any project or event. She is an amazing example for all of us and our students. Thank you doesn't begin to cover our admiration for chef Miller and all she does for CIM."

 

Lisa McMillen, Instructor at Baker College, honored by Kathleen Bohr

"She made a class I dreaded (statistical methods) very imforative, help me make sure I knew what I was doing and made sure I learned beyond my comfort zone. She is an inspiration during this pandemic and a great motivational instructor."

 

Patricia Sanom, Aunt, honored by Jessica Sanom

"My Aunt Pattie was one of the greatest women I have ever had the privilege of knowing. She was such a positive person always, and always looked out for others. She always pushed me to be my best self, to go after my goals I wanted, to always believe in myself, and to love others. Her inspiration is something that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. This is why even though she is not longer with us, I will keep pushing to be a better person."

Misunderstood Panel

Misunderstood Panel

For the last few years, Baker College’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council consecutively hosts a Misunderstood Panel event, inviting experts and professionals across our communities to speak on a variety of topics focusing on groups and communities within society that are routinely stigmatized, misunderstood, and marginalized.

March is Women's History Month and BC has invited an esteemed panel of professional women who will be discussing the challenges they have faced over the course of the last year as they juggle working remote (and returning to their workplaces), child rearing, the COVID-19 pandemic, social justice issues, and providing leadership within their companies and organizations.

 

Celebrating Diversity During the Holidays

Black History Month Virtual Poster Contest

We would like to thank all the participants in this year's Black History Month Celebration. 

Poster Winners

1st Place

  • Poster # 7
  • Title: Harper Watters
  • Student: Lauren Warshaw
  • Program: Physical Therapy Assistant (Owosso)

 

2nd Place

  • Poster # 6
  • Title: Breaking the Glass for African American Women
  • Student: Ashley Simrau
  • Program: Nursing (Owosso)
Veterans Day

Black History Month Virtual Expo

All of our participants did an exceptional job in shining a light on significant people and events in our nation's history, which is often not recognized.

1st Place

  • Exhibit #3
  • Title: Black History: A Step into Education
  • Students: Madison O’Neil and Amy Thomas
  • Program: Physical Therapy Assistant (Owosso)

 

2nd Place

  • Exhibit #6
  • Title: Figures in Congress
  • Student: Heather Jeffery
  • Program: Human Services (Muskegon)

 

3rd Place

  • Exhibit # 15
  • Title: Maya Angelou
  • Students: Jamie Keating, Jaylynn Talsma, David Duthinth
  • Program: Occupational Therapy Assistant (Owosso)
Black History Month Virtual Talent Show

Black History Month Virtual Talent Show

We want all of our participants to know how PROUD we are of you!  We also want to send a special thank you to all of the coaches.

Talent Showcase  

  • Song: Fist Full of Tears by Maxwell
  • Student: Essence Whitlow  
  • Program: Psychology (Online)

Congratulations to our winners, coaches and all of our 2021 Black History Month participants. 

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist

Lt. Governor Gilchrist 2021 Message

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist congratulates Baker College on their Black History Month Celebration

View Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist congratulates Baker College on their Black History Month Celebration video »

Black History Month Leaders

Black History Month 2021

Baker College Leadership Reflections for Black History Month

View Reflecting on the Significance of Black Leaders video »

MLK Essay Scholarship Winners

MLK Essay Scholarship Winners

Each Year Baker College’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council invites all students to participate in the annual “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Justice Award” essay contest in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Congratulations Marilyn Schonhard, Mickkayla Erbach, Lydia Marouf, Kate Dmitruchina, Mya Lewis, Jennevie Stephenson, Jacara Hollis, Tess Lewis, Travis Allen, and Angela Carter.

Thank you to all who participated and congratulations to these 10 students who were selected to win a scholarship. Your words are a powerful reminder of the challenges many face and the work it will take to continue moving forward.

View Baker College MLK Essay Contest Winners 2021 video »

Appreciating Diversity

Appreciating Diversity During the Holidays

Learn about different religions and holidays helps us to reduce stereotypes and serves to educate ourselves about what other people believe, experience and celebrate. Multicultural Calendar 2022

View Appreciating Diversity During the Holidays video »

Unity Conference

DEI Virtual Unity Summit

On October 9th, the DEI Council held a virtual Unity Summit via Zoom that focused on “Encouraging Allyship During a Time of Crisis.” Keynote speaker, Jesse Hagopian, spoke to Baker College faculty and staff about ways to be an ally during such a divisive time in our nation.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month

Every year Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15th to October 15th. Baker College’s DEI Chapters celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with food, dance, music and events centered around the traditions of Latin culture.

Baker College remains committed to a safe and inclusive environment for all of our students, staff and faculty. Although this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration looks a little different, please know we are proud that you have chosen Baker College! We hope you enjoy our virtual events!

View the Hispanic Heritage Month Virtual video »

View the Hispanic Heritage Month Lunch and Learn video »

2019-2020 Events

Veterans Day

Veterans Day

Baker College celebrates Veterans Day each year to recognize our military students, staff and faculty, past and present, as well as to support our military veterans and salute them for their service. Many BC faculty, staff and students have served, and we honor them by placing their name and/or picture on an Honor Wall or Veterans Remembrance Tree. The Fallen Soldier tables at our campuses are another way we honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Honor a Veteran with a ribbon on the Honor Tree in gratitude to the service men and women who have sacrificed to protect our country and our freedom; Purple in honor of soldiers currently serving; Black in recognition of prisoners of war and those missing in action; White in memory of soldiers who gave their lives in service; Blue in honor of Baker College students or community members currently serving or who have served; Yellow in support of all veterans and service members.

Black History Month

Black History Month

Our Black History Month Expo showcases our students’ work! Every year our students design and present exhibits and posters, which highlight African-American accomplishments and contributions, in each of their educational professions. The community is invited to attend the showcase event and vote on the most educational and creative exhibits. The winners are awarded prestigious Baker College scholarships.

MLK Day Winners

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has become the most recognized day for community service. Dr. King spoke of service, community, empowerment, and nonviolence. In recognition of the national holiday, and in honor of Dr. King’s humanitarian contributions, Baker College encourages students to engage in community service to commemorate the day. However, for the last few years, Baker College has also held an MLK essay contest to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The contest typically sees about 300 essay submissions, and 10 winners are chosen from the submissions; these winners are both undergraduates and graduates at Baker College, and they receive scholarships as their award.

Meet the 10 winners from our February 2020 contest:

  • Katlyn Bogart, Junior, Bachelor of Science, Pre-Occupational Therapy
  • Ryian Hubbard, Master's Candidate, Master of Science, Occupational Therapy
  • Janaiya Joes, Freshman, Associate of Applied Science, Diagnostic Sonography
  • Carisa Kramer, Postgraduate, Post-baccalaureate Certificate
  • Abigail Lorincz, Junior, Bachelor, Business Administration, Management
  • DayQuichiesa Martin, Junior, Associate of Applied Science, Criminal Justice
  • NeKarra Norman, Freshman, Associate of Applied Science, Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Anna Poling, Freshman, Associate of Applied Science, Veterinary Technology
  • Baileigh Rohlfs, Freshman, Associate of Applied Science, Veterinary Technology
  • Ruthann Strickland, Sophomore, Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Unity Dinner

DEI Unity Council Regional Dinner

Baker College’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (DEI) and the DEI Campus Chapters hosted dinners regionally across the State of Michigan. These dinners were designed for students to connect with other students, staff, and faculty to have conversations centered on diversity and inclusion, gain awareness, and ask questions specific to minority students.

DEI Unity Summit

DEI Unity Summit

For the last few years, Baker College’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council has consecutively held system-wide Unity Summit events to bring together faculty, staff, and students to spread awareness, share information, and come together in camaraderie to promote the institutional initiatives of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The most recent DEI Unity Summit was focused on inequities in education. The Summit participants had the opportunity to listen to an esteemed panel of DEI professionals in the morning and attended breakout sessions in the afternoon. Participants left the event with additional tools to further engage our diverse population of students.

View the Baker College Unity Council Summit 'Inequity in Education'; Keynote Address with David Humphry video »

View the Baker College Unity Council Summit 'Inequity in Education' Panel Discussion video »

 


Get Involved

Baker College’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council is an active and engaged Council who holds various campus and community events. We hope you are able to join us for our upcoming events.

    View Upcoming Events