On Thursday, January 6, 2011, a group of members from the Northeast Association of College and University Housing Officers (NEACUHO) gathered at the College of New Rochelle in New Rochelle, NY for a day-long retreat at the 4th Annual NEACUHO Professionals of Color & Friends Retreat. The Social Issues Committee holds two additional retreats during this 3-day Winter Retreat Series each January. The GLBT & Friends Retreat occurred on Wednesday, January 5th and the Women's Winter Renewal Retreat occurred on Friday, January 7th, both of which also took place at the College of New Rochelle. All three retreats are sponsored annually by the NEACUHO Social Issues Committee. Manuel Vasquez currently serves as the Chair of the Social Issues Committee. Manuel was assisted by Tanika Mangum, who was the Chair of the Professionals of Color & Friends Retreat. Both Manuel and Tanika were assisted by a sub-committee of members from the Social Issues Committee who helped plan, coordinate and implement this important and meaningful retreat.
During this retreat participants were able to network with each other and share challenges and perspectives about their experience working in residence life as a person of color at a predominately white institution. The retreat featured a keynote speaker and breakout sessions where presenters discussed topics including networking, allies supporting professionals of color in residence life, upward mobility as well as two additional sessions- one that focused on men of color and the second one for women of color. I had the opportunity to present the session that focused on the experiences and challenges facing men of color working professionally in residence life. The retreat also included a mentoring program for new professionals of color to be connected with seasoned professionals of color.
The conversations and presentations were timely, engaging and important. We learned from each other and gained perspective and understanding of our individual experiences. This retreat is important because it provides a safe space for professionals of color and allies to gather and discuss challenges and experiences that can help us grow and develop as professionals. Participants walk away from this experience feeling renewed, refreshed and able to re-prioritize their professional and personal goals. We are excited for the 5th Annual Professionals of Color & Friends Retreat next January and welcome all to attend.
If you're working in residence life and interested in getting involved with NEACUHO and these important initiatives, please visit www.neacuho.org for more information about how you can get involved. Pictured above are some of the participants from the Professionals of Color & Friends Retreat.
For more information about my work and experiences, please visit www.davidearljones.com.
