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John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

John D Strong Accepted in Lumen Circles Fellowship Program

By News Archive

August 16, 2021 

In an effort to connect with other faculty members and share best practices in teaching and supporting students, John D Strong will participate in the Lumen Circles Fellowship Program this fall.  The nine-week program is sponsored by the State University of New York (SUNY) Open Educational Resources (OER) in conjunction with the SUNY Center for Professional Development.

Strong, an Assistant Professor in Health and Physical Education and Personal Trainer Certificate Coordinator was appointed as Chief Diversity and Equity Officer in the fall of 2020.  In the Lumen Program, Strong will be focusing on the theme, Belonging & Inclusive Teaching Fundamentals.  This is one of six cohort groups participants in the program can select.  This focused theme will allow him to develop as a teacher by exploring evidence-based practices that support a diverse group of students, building on the strengths of each individual.  This experience will help him to develop his ability to engage students and help them to feel seen, respected, and included as capable partners in the learning process.  When asked what he’s hoping to learn from the Lumen Program, Strong states, “Ultimately, I’m looking to be the best teacher I can be, and offer the greatest access to information possible to as broad a student population as possible.”

Instructors at SUNY Niagara routinely take part in professional development opportunities both on campus and through SUNY.  “I appreciate the opportunity to grow as a professional and enhance the SUNY Niagara academic community.”  As both an Assistant Professor and the Chief Diversity and Equity Officer, Strong will be able to share his experience with others at SUNY Niagara, creating a more inclusive and effective learning environment for students of all backgrounds.

John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer


Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director, Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: saharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu

John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

Strong choice for Chief Diversity and Equity Officer at SUNY Niagara

By News Archive

September 14, 2020

SUNY Niagara has appointed Assistant Professor John D. Strong as the new Chief Diversity and Equity Officer starting in the fall of 2020.  This is a newly created position to lead the Diversity and Inclusion Committee that was formed in September of 2016.  Strong has been at the College for over 14 years, working as an Assistant Professor in Health and Physical Education and serving as the Personal Trainer Certificate Coordinator.  He holds a Master of Science degree from Walden University and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Canisius College.

Along with other Diversity and Inclusion Committee members, Strong is working to increase support for social justice and civility in developing curricula, programs, services, policies, and procedures on campus as noted in the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategic Action Plan.  Initiatives such as hosting “Diverse Dialogues” will bring together faculty, staff, students, and community members together for conversations on how the campus can be a better and more inclusive place to learn and work.  The committee is also working to create a comprehensive webpage that will include all initiatives that the campus community can get involved in, and will also provide opportunities to share ideas and feedback to improve the campus experience.

In response to his appointment, Strong states, “I really look forward to serving in this role as we try to bring SUNY Niagara into a more anti-racist and unified future.”  He will continue to serve as a faculty member in addition to his role as the Chief Diversity and Equity Officer.


Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: saharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu