That includes University leadership that reflects LIFE ’ s gender parity among its student population , according to Dr . Oliveira .

“ I think women think differently . When you have a male-dominated environment , that perspective is lost ,” she said . “ It ’ s in that diversity of thought and perspective where innovation can happen . The lens in which we approach and see the world is different , and I think it is critical .”

Dr . Oliveira made clear she wasn ’ t speaking only about gender equality .

“ This is why the ideas of diversity and inclusion are so important . Because when you don ’ t have a diverse working body , you end up with a ‘ group think .’ You limit your growth , your development and your options for the organization or institution .”

Those thoughts were echoed by other leaders at Life University , including Life University ’ s Director of Counseling Vincent Hinton . In his position , Hinton works closely with students of diverse backgrounds to meet , address and support their emotional health by helping them determine next best steps in an array of situations they may be in life . In addition , he serves the University by addressing any immediate campus crisis needs ; facilitating classroom speaking opportunities ; serving on campus committees and outreach initiatives ; collaborating with other departments ; and providing an array of wellness workshops for LIFE students .

“ For many , such as prospective students and future employees , diversity and inclusion are a top priority when seeking to start or continue an educational goal or secure a place of employment ,” remarked Hinton . “ With University leadership identifying it as a top priority at our institution , accompanied by demonstrated efforts through Dr . Oliveira ’ s campus climate initiative , the LIFE community is creating a place that not only educates students in the classroom and provides employment opportunities for many , but also creates a space that allows one to view life through a variety of lenses .”

Through Hinton ’ s work as Director of Counseling at LIFE , he meets students each and every day with diverse backgrounds ( i . e . ethnicities , races , gender identities , sexual orientations , religions , etc .). His job is to meet them where they are and provide avenues of support in their journeys to get where they want to go .

“ I hear their stories , with intention and purpose , while providing tools , strategies and techniques to compliment and support their goals ,” said Hinton . “ I know it ’ s a part of my job to help expand their worldviews to see life through many perspectives .”

Outside of his official position , Hinton also is a part of multiple on-campus committees and organizations that promote diversity and inclusion in the LIFE community , including the Diversity Committee , Safe Space and more .

“ Through the Diversity Committee , we promote and provide opportunities to learn about others by recognizing cultures , perspectives , and individuals with different abilities ; promoting dialogue through a film series ; embracing special holidays ; and recognizing other diverse opportunities to challenge us to grow through knowledge ,” explained Hinton . “ Safe Space supports our student population by allowing the offices of those who have undergone the training to serve as a safe space to those that may seek and / or need help and support .”

Hinton also works closely with student organizations to promote things such as PRIDE Week and Minority Mental Health Awareness Month .

“ Through various outlets the University provides , it expands our work to create occasions to not only educate our students , but also provide educational opportunities to engage our faculty and staff ,” says Hinton . “ There is no better time than now for us to embrace each day and challenge ourselves to walk in the shoes of someone that is different than us . Work related to diversity and inclusion empowers , challenges , strengthens and fosters a spirit that promotes collaboration so that all feel and know they can thrive . LIFE has taken a huge step by recognizing that this is a priority .”

Dr . Leana Kart , an alumna and Board of Trustees member also shared her background with Chiropractic , LIFE and perspective on the University ’ s diversity efforts .

“ I ’ m a 1987 LIFE graduate , and I came to Chiropractic as a child ,” Dr . Kart said . “ My parents took me to a chiropractor because of my health , and it saved my life actually . So , I was always very motivated by the fact that Chiropractic could help much more than neck and back pain by having that personal experience at such a young age .”

Vincent Hinton , Director of Counseling

“ For many , such as

prospective students

and future employees ,

diversity and inclusion

are a top priority

when seeking to

start or continue an

educational goal

or secure a place of

employment ”

Alumni . LIFE . edu | 2019

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