Galloway, N.J - Stockton University has been chosen by the Association of American Colleges and Universities as one of 13 new institutions to host a Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Center.

The new center will serve as a catalyst for facilitating community collaborations and dialogues that can question, break down and dissolve unhealthy racial narratives.

“Part of Stockton’s mission is to prepare our students to live and thrive in a multi-cultural society and become leaders in their communities,” said Stockton President Harvey Kesselman. “This initiative will pave the way for the next generation of strategic leaders and critical thinkers to advance equity and access.”

AAC&U plans to establish 150 such centers across the country. The 13 announced this month join 10 approved in 2017, including Rutgers-Newark, the only other center in New Jersey.  The association provides strategic support and direction, including a summer institute.  Financial support is provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation effort, the Newman’s Own Foundation and the Papa John’s Foundation.

“AAC&U is thrilled to partner with these outstanding institutions to ensure that higher education is playing a leadership role in promoting racial and social justice,” said AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella.

Carra Hood, associate provost at Stockton, said the initiative will involve faculty members, Stockton’s Center for Community Engagement and Office of Service Learning as well as community and religious leaders.   Among the first goals of the Stockton team is to host community events on campus, in Atlantic City, and other locations to discuss the issues or racial hierarchies and racial healing.

“We look forward to working with our faculty, students, and community leaders to build shared narratives that dismantle racial hierarchies of human value,” Hood said.

 

Contact:
Diane D’Amico
Director of News and Media Relations
Galloway, N.J. 08205
Diane.DAmico@stockton.edu
609-652-4593
609-412-8069
stockton.edu/media