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By: Amy Charles | December 20, 2024
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) Office of Diversity, Excellence and Belonging has been awarded a $15,000 grant from Columbia Gas of Kentucky’s NiSource Charitable Foundation to cultivate future leaders through the Justice, Excellence, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Leadership Program.
The UPIKE Director of Diversity, Excellence and Belonging, Jasmine Sauceda-Izbrand, is proud of the progress of JEDI’s pilot program progress this fall, and is thankful for the additional funding to continue the program going forward.
“I am so grateful to the UPIKE grant writing office for their support in securing this grant for our students,” said Sauceda-Izbrand. “I feel honored to have this program recognized as it realizes the mission and vision of the office to cultivate culturally competent leaders who engage in their richly diverse communities.”
This year-long program begins with guest speakers from across Kentucky for the fall semester, allowing participants to gain insights into potential career paths, develop professional skills, and witness examples of leadership in action throughout the Commonwealth. Guest speakers include the Judge-Executive of Magoffin County, an economic development leader from Martin County, staff from AppalReD Legal Aid, local employer Appalachian Wireless, Breaks Interstate Park leadership, and other critical leaders of the region.
The spring semester includes community service projects where participants will lead and organize projects for local organizations fostering the principles of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Projects include making blankets for nursing home residents, trash clean-ups, and drives for canned food, clothing and stuffed animals.
Sydney Middleton, a graduating senior majoring in business-healthcare management, participated in the JEDI program this fall and benefited greatly from the experience.
“This program has allowed me to network with leaders and experts from across the Commonwealth. I’ve also gained valuable experience in public speaking, teamwork, resume building, professional communication and a better understanding of advocacy,” said Middleton. “This opportunity has allowed me to have hands-on experience in these skills and will undoubtedly make me more successful in my future endeavors.”