I am aware that there have been some concerns expressed about the use of the word “relocation” when referring to moving the presidential portraits from their current location. There are also concerns about what this means for our history and legacy at EMU. I want to start by thanking those who raised their concern. As an academic institution committed to a Life Together, “we listen to each other with compassion and boldly share our own authentic statements of faith and doubt.”

The legacy of our former presidents is at the heart of who we are today — and we will continue to honor it as we move together in building a community that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging.

The presidential portraits are in a library room currently used as a classroom. As our student body has become more diverse, many of our students have expressed feeling uncomfortable in a space that lacks representation. The intent of this project is threefold:

a) to create a classroom space that is inviting and inclusive for all of our students;
b) to have a presidential gallery in a place that is more visible and more appropriate to its purpose of honoring university leadership, history and legacy; and
c) to have conversations among our community members regarding ways to increase our sense of belonging among all students, faculty, and staff. How does our legacy support our diversity, equity, and inclusion aspirations?

After re-reading the text in the article about this proposal, I recognize that it could have been hurtful to some and interpreted as being dismissive of the work done by our past presidents that have shaped who we are today. This is far from the intent of the project.

The inauguration of the new presidential portrait gallery will be planned in consultation with the President’s Office and the Board of Trustees.

As we continue to build a community that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, I invite any of you with concerns or ideas to reach out to me. We are stronger together if we all belong together.

Jackie Font-Guzmán
Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
jackie.font@emu.edu

Thank you.