Diversity and Inclusion Week is a Priority for Temple Athletics

Temple Student-Athletes: This is Who We Are

Plugged into Philadelphia, Temple and Temple Athletics pride themselves on the diversity of its students. The diversity that represents different religions, races, nationalities, and sexual orientations make the university stronger every day. While honoring diversity is not just a once a year occasion, the NCAA has established the week of Oct. 22 as Diversity and Inclusion Week and is highlighted by a social media campaign.

The week consists of four themes. The first is, "This Is Who We Are," where schools introduce their athletes via social media. Second is, "Broaden Our Horizons," which will highlight specific examples of diverse friendships, mentors, and role models. Third, the attention will move to "Better Together," where schools will be able to highlight how diversity makes them stronger. Finally, "Taking Action." In this stage, schools will be able to display steps for proper inclusion practices.

The Temple University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is taking the lead on the social media aspect of this week. According to SAAC Coordinator and Assistant Compliance Director, Olivia Wynn, SAAC is highlighting the diverse student-athletes, teams, and cross-campus partners for the second annual NCAA Diversity and Inclusion Week. This week is an opportunity for the Owls to demonstrate their leadership in the area.

SAAC Event Coordinator and Temple Golfer, Matt Kristick said, "Throughout the next four days, you will see a different component of what truly makes Temple diverse."

This week is not only highlighted by Temple's student-athletes, but by the diverse hard-working men and women of the Temple Athletics staff.

This campaign is not only on social media at Temple.

SAAC President and field hockey player, Lucy Reed said, "This campaign is all about how we as student-athletes are more than just athletes; we are friends, siblings, leaders, and much more."

There are stations that are allowing student-athletes to get involved even further.

"On top of us taking part in the nationwide social media campaign, outside of the Resnick center, student-athletes are going to have the opportunity to express their multiple identities. This will be a great way for everyone to see how diverse and unique our student-athletes really are," Kristick explained.

Temple is putting out a large amount of content this week. However, it is not one week of social media that Temple has to show. Over several decades, Temple has prioritized diversity and the efforts continue to intensify.

According to Wynn, "We are in the planning process for bringing in a diverse range of speakers to teach our athletes about embracing diversity and breaking through the glass ceiling."

The athletic department consistently puts forth valuable programming for its student-athletes, ranging from sexual assault awareness, mental health, career, diversity and many more.

Temple also encourages free discussion through its backing of the organization Student-Athlete Safe Space or SASS. According to SASS President Alex Defuso, this organization is a group for student-athletes of all backgrounds and identities to get together and freely discuss current happenings in athletics at Temple and beyond.

"SASS gives the diverse population of student-athletes at Temple a chance to share their experience with other student-athletes," Defuso said.

With Temple Athletics' continued backing of organizations of diverse backgrounds, student-athletes are able to have their voices heard in an open environment.

Diversity is more than just a number at Temple. It is a way to success for all student-athletes. When a university is able to promote a diverse and open environment it creates success.

"Temple athletics is a place where one can feel at home and really be able to excel in the classroom and their respective playing field," Kristick said.

Follow @templesaac on Instagram to follow along this week.

Temple University Athletics

Diversity and Inclusion Week is a Priority for Temple Athletics

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