BLinc and ALPFA Partner For Inclusive Learning Event

The Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) and one of five student affinity groups at the David Eccles School of Business. ALPFA hosts many events throughout the academic year, such as panels with industry professionals, seminars, and workshops on how to build LinkedIn profiles (and resumes), along with hosting volunteer opportunities. ALPFA’s mission is “to empower and develop Latino men and women as leaders of character for the nation, in every sector of the global economy.” ALPFA is an important pillar in the community not only to all students but especially first-gen students of color, whose experiences may differ from those of non-minority students.

As part of our commitment to provide a welcoming environment for all students, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, legal status, economic situation, abilities, or other aspects of identity, BLinc recently partnered with ALPFA for a tabling opportunity about tutoring opportunities available at the Guadalupe School. The Guadalupe School provides educational services to our city’s diverse community by enrolling many Hispanic & Latino students and families. From birth through sixth grade, children are served through Guadalupe programs. Find more information here.

Students were also able to learn more about microaggressions, which are indirect, often unintentional, comments that are a form of racism, sexism, or ableism and create a harmful or hostile experience for the target. Examples include comments such as “your name is too hard to pronounce,” “I don’t see color,” or “You’re so articulate. You speak English so well.” If you would like to learn more about how microaggressions affect many different marginalized and minority groups and what you could do to stop them, please read this article.

If you are someone you know is looking for a volunteer opportunity, look no further. Before tutoring at the Guadalupe School, you must attend a one-hour info session about the school. It is a three-month commitment, but substitute opportunities are also available. There is no need to be able to speak a second language or have any tutoring experience. Completing this volunteer opportunity will fulfill the service hours required for both the Fall and Spring Semesters for the new EDI Leadership Award. If you have any comments or questions, please reach out to Amber Christensen at amber.christensen@guadschool.org.

“As a student and student leader, it has been amazing to watch our student government promote EDI initiatives this year,” says Brenda Garcia, Finance major and president of ALPFA.” ALPFA is one of many business student orgs that hope to make a positive change for the student experience through events, building community, and sharing our student’s voices! This tabling event allowed us to collaborate with BLinc to spread awareness on microaggressions and celebrate Latino students in the business school!”

BLinc will also partner with Out For Business on Wednesday, Nov. 16, from noon – 1 p.m., in Child Hall. This will be a great panel about gender inclusion within our Eccles community.