Under the theme "Navigating Change: Leading through Defining Moments," the four-day conference comes at a time when many diversity efforts face heightened scrutiny and political challenges, including recent actions from the Trump administration that have aggressively targeted diversity programs across educational institutions.
In an interview with Diverse, NADOHE President Paulette Granberry Russell, emphasized the importance of community during these difficult and challenging times.
“For many of us it's affirming,” she said of the annual gathering. “It allows people to share sometimes those down moments but also understanding that we're not by ourselves. People need to have that kind of support reinforced."
The energy at the conference was palpable as professionals who often work in isolation on their respective campuses found solidarity with colleagues facing similar challenges. Many attendees expressed relief at being in a space where their work was understood and valued.
A key focus of this year's gathering is developing more effective communication strategies to reach beyond traditional allies. Granberry Russell acknowledged some messaging shortcomings within the DEI field that may have made it difficult to counter misrepresentations of the work.
“Sometimes it's important for us to acknowledge that too often in higher ed, we're talking to each other and we're often talking to those that may be the converted," she said.
