Ambassadors for Inclusion

The Ambassador for Inclusion (AFI) Professional Learning Community provides opportunities for ongoing conversation around and professional development in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI)—important values in Suffolk’s institutional culture.

This professional learning community is a signature initiative created by members of the Racial Equity & Justice Campus Team. Participants engage in deep study of best practices related to JEDI work. Any Suffolk faculty or staff member or alumnus interested in expanding their knowledge of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion is invited to participate. There are two Ambassador for Inclusion programs being offered on a regular basis.

AFI 1.0 – Creating an Inclusive Community

In this six-week program, participants will develop an understanding of JEDI principles, learn how and why that knowledge is essential in cultivating welcoming work environments and apply those principles in educating and supporting others on their respective JEDI journeys.

Program activities include independent review of program materials (videos, articles, etc.), reflective journaling, community dialogue sessions, attending workshops, and meetings with an assigned cohort partner.

AFI 2.0 – Becoming an Inclusive Leader

Anyone who has completed AFI 1.0 is invited to participate in AFI 2.0. Participants in this program will move from JEDI concepts to action by organizing and implementing an individual JEDI project.

Program activities include deep exploration of JEDI content such as disrupting bias, inclusive leadership traits, and cultural intelligence. Participants will exercise their knowledge to influence transformative change at their respective workplaces.
Explore past AFI 2.0 Presentations

Program Sessions

The next AFI 1.0 program will take place October 17, 2024 through November 21, 2024. Participants will devote approximately two hours per week to the program and attendance is mandatory for the following Thursday sessions:

  1. October Building Our Ambassadors for Inclusion Community - 10/17/2024
  2. October Empathy as a Catalyst for Creating a Welcoming & Safe Environment 10/24/2024
  3. October Inviting in the Student Perspective 10/31/2024
  4. November Becoming Aware of Others’ Perspectives 11/7/2024
  5. November The Impact of Diversity and Inclusion on Our Campus Community 11/14/2024
  6. November What Difference Will You Make? Acting on Your Commitment to DEI 11/21/2024

All sessions begin at 12 p.m. on Zoom. For more information regarding the program, please contact Joyya Smith or Jennifer Blakey.

Register for AFI 1.0 Fall 2024 

The next AFI 2.0 program will take place in spring 2024. Participants will devote approximately two hours per week to the program and attendance is mandatory at specific sessions during the program. Session dates and registration information will be provided later in the fall. For more information regarding the program, please contact Joyya Smith or Jennifer Blakey.

Register for AFI 2.0 Spring 2025

Have you completed AFI 1.0? We would love to have you join us as a facilitator.
Register for AFI 1.0 Facilitator Training Fall 2024 

AFI Refresher Course

October 10, 2024

Past Ambassador for Inclusion participants are invited to attend an AFI Refresher Course on October 10, 2024 to discuss the state of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Additionally, attendees will discuss ways to advance institutional efforts to support DEI and foster a sense of belonging among all Suffolk community stakeholders. For more information, contact Joyya Smith.

Register for AFI Refresher Course October 2024