Diversity Training

Due to a faculty enrichment grant, 30 Cuesta employees were able to attend a unique four-hour diversity training program on February 10th. Lead by nationally acclaimed lecturer and trainer Lee Mun Wah, this multicultural diversity and sensitivity training focused on communication and understanding rather than simply talking about diversity.

The workshop leader, Lee Mun Wah was catapulted into the national spotlight in 1995 when Oprah Winfrey televised a special on his work and life. He is a well-known filmmaker and his company, Stir Fry Seminars, presents trainings and programs to numerous corporations, educational institutes and non-profit organizations. About seven years ago, Bailey Dreschler, now an instructor in the Human Development department, went through Lee Mun Wah’s diversity training. The training compelled Dreschler to continue to be involved and engaged in the topic of diversity. Her continued interest was the motivation for writing the Faculty Enrichment Grant that helped fund a portion of the program cost.

While many diversity and sensitivity training programs might focus on defining diversity or the legalities of the issue, Dreschler explains the difference of Lee’s programs. Rather than talking about diversity, participants talk about their experiences and insights. She also explains that by playing the role of facilitator, Lee is able to help people open up, communicate and really listen to other people. This results in a more meaningful understanding of what individuals face each day and how each person can take responsibility for themselves and the stereotypes they believe.

The post program evaluations are clear that this diversity training was unique in its scope and affect on participants. Many participants felt a deeper understanding of others and themselves and how they could bring understanding of each other into their daily lives. For more information about the Lee Mun Wah, visit the StirFry Seminars website at www.stirfryseminars.com.