Midland University is proud to host the “Together we are Warriors” Equity and Inclusion Summit on Sunday, February 9 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Wikert Event Center. The event is sponsored by Midland University, Methodist Fremont Health, and the Greater Fremont Development Council. 

The Equity and Inclusion Summit will bring Midland University and the Fremont community together as they embrace and celebrate what makes each person unique. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to create inclusive spaces and develop ways they can incorporate inclusion into their everyday lives.

“It is important for higher education institutions like Midland University to bring campus and community together to focus on inclusion and equity,” Dr. Lawrence Chatters, Vice President for Student Affairs, said. “When a person feels accepted, they are more likely to excel. Taking the time to help our students, faculty, and staff reflect on shared values, identities, and our ability to work together to succeed is essential." 

Keynote speakers will be DeMoine Adams, a former University of Nebraska and National Football League player, and Deja Young, a former Wichita State University All-American and current United States paralympic track athlete. “It is so important to have these events because it gives students insight on how important it is to break down barriers and look at inclusivity as a strength they all have within them,” Young said. “I’m excited to share my story to further the education of inclusion.”

“It’s an honor to be a part of this summit to inspire students and the community to embrace the diversity of leadership and the institution’s core value of respect by understanding that each individual is unique while recognizing one’s own individual differences,” Adams said. “Midland University has always done a great job of preparing their students to learn, lead, and grow in a mutually supportive community.”

Sidney Hirsch, Director of Student Development, Warriors Skills, said these events help unite both the Fremont community and the Midland campus. “I couldn't be more excited to be part of the first Equity and Inclusion Summit here at Midland,” Hirsch said. “This is such a unique opportunity and to be able to bring together both the campus and the community is going to be something special for the city of Fremont."

Methodist Fremont Health President and CEO Brett Richmond said MFH is honored to take part in bringing people from diverse backgrounds together. “Methodist Fremont Health is proud to be part of this important summit,” Richmond said. “Celebrating our diversity and all that makes us unique is an important part of what brings us together as a community and in our places of work. This event will serve as a great door opener for our community where we can listen, share, and learn together.” 

The summit will also feature performances by the nationally-recognized Midland University Dance program and choir, along with food, T-shirts and more. Limited space is available for Fremont community members. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Sidney Hirsch at warriorskills@midlandu.edu.