Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Spotlights

Sydney Hatanaka

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am Asian American, more specifically Japanese and Chinese American. My great-grandparents and grandparents had immigrated to America. So, it could feel like I am more American than Asian sometimes."

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"Being able to understand a wide range of people and their backgrounds to provide an inclusive environment."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"It can be hard to embrace the cultures you have in America, but after COVID-19 I learned to love my two Asian cultures. I think a lot of it was internal, so learning to love myself and the culture I had really helped." 

How have you benefited from diversity?

"A diverse environment is all about learning from other people and groups. In college and the workforce, there are often a lot of us vs them situations. However, when you have the chance to understand other people's stories, you really can find common ground. It is not just about race, but also things like hidden disabilities. I am not just an Asian American, but I also have a congenital heart disease, so I am aware of the challenges that come from not being able to do everything. We can learn from everyone, and it helps build a more caring community." 

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"NSMH National Society of Minorites in Hospitality. I am serving my second term as the Vice President of our chapter. We help uplift and embraced the voice of minorities in the hospitality industry. We want to create a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment."

Kyle Kibic

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am a First Generation Filipino American, and I am part of the LGBTQ+ community."

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"I think that DEI is what makes people unique. I think that it is important to not discriminate or treat someone different based on factors that are related to culture and identity. A big part of my character and who I am comes from cultural background along with the sexual orientation that I identify with."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"When I was in elementary school, I was one of the few Asian American students. I realized that I became desensitized to racism and discrimination because I thought that it was "normal". I remember people coming up to me asking how I am able to see or being judged based on the food that I brought to school from home. I wish that I was able to understand that situation better when I was younger so that I could be able to educate my peers on my culture. Along with that, I have had a few uncomfortable instances regarding my sexual identity, and I wish that I had the courage to stand up for myself but I am not there as a person just yet."

How have you benefited from diversity?

"I think that I have lived with unique experiences which allows me to have a unique perspective on life, academics, extracurriculars, etc. I hope that it makes me stand out as we grow into a world that supports and embraces diversity and inclusion!"

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"I would suggest to check out different cultural centers that we have on campus which are as listed: African American Student Center Asian & Pacific Islander Student Center Cesar E Chavez Center for Higher Education Native American Student Center Pride Center Womxn's Resource Center All of these great centers are resources for people who are wanting to broaden their perspectives and be surrounded by like minded people."

Jake Fry

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am a 23 year old male from Southern California. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I love being in the Hospitality Industry and working in Education. I am also a part of the Pepperdine Community, as I am doing my Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning there. And the Collins College Alumni community!"

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"DEI to me is the acknowledgement and appreciation of the many things that make all of us unique and special, intentionally creating a community of people from all different walks of life, and providing the resources needed for everyone and anyone to have the ability to accomplish their goals and dreams."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"The biggest challenge I have had is coming out. The hardest part for me was how do I tell people? Thankfully, I have a really supportive family who has had my back and helped push me to be authentically me."

How have you benefited from diversity?

"Yes! I have had the privilege of working with chefs from many different cultures was able to learn about their different lifestyles coming from many different cultures. I also learned about the traditional food from different regions and culture. I also have been able to travel to a few different countries and engage with different locals which has taught me a lot about the world and I've tried to understand their different views, ideals, and struggles. Diversity has pushed me to be a better member of society by learning about different people and listening to their stories."

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"Everyone is different, but I have found great community within my educational cohort at Pepperdine, with my colleagues at CCHM, and my volunteer work with Plants 4 the People where I get to spend time working with youth in gardens." 

Neha Singh

Describe your background or self-identification:

"Asian-Indian; Hospitality Academia, Volunteer at Schools. Meditation." 

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"Fairness to all; Importance of humanity; Celebration of differences."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"Calmness and forgiveness for lack of knowledge." 

How have you benefited from diversity?

"I got selected for various opportunities due to other organizations valuing diversity."

Kortnee Burrell

Describe your background or self-identification:

"African American"

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"Equity is the act of ensuring that processes and programs are impartial, fair and provide equal possible outcomes for every individual. Inclusion is the practice of making people feel a sense of belonging at work. Diversity is the presence of differences within a given setting. Inclusion is the practice of making people feel a sense of belonging at work."

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"National Association of Student Personnel Administrators"

Ruth Kent

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am a Christian and a follower of Christ! I am a 20 year old female from Northern California. I am a first-generation, low-income college student. This is my third-year at Cal Poly Pomona and I am planning to graduate by Spring 2024 to get my Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management My emphasis is Food and Beverage as I have always been interested in the restaurant side of the industry but am hoping to explore many different aspects! I am very involved in the college and have been a club member of each of the Collins College student run clubs and served on two chair positions, one for NSMH and CMAA. I am also a part of EOP and a student representative for the DEI Committee!

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"Diversity, equity, and inclusion not only ensures that everyone feels welcome but puts into place the ways that people can include others and appreciate their differences of backgrounds and identities! It is what brings everyone together even when they are so different from one another! It gives everyone the same opportunities and accessibility! It keeps us connected and not divided! It makes for a wonderful learning environment in our College and outside of it, a comfortable place to share opinions and values! There is no success without DEI, no matter where you are!"

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"One of the biggest challenges I have faced due to my identity has to be knowing my worth and believing in my abilities! As a woman in the hospitality industry we are very underrepresented! Women in hospitality can be looked at as less than and can be treated in such a way. I have faced that in some of my classes and it was not a good feeling. I was able to care less about what others think of me and do what matters to me! I have two very big inspirations and influences near and dear to my heart that continue to push me to accomplish everything I want in this industry! I would just say you have to stay true to your heart and values, no matter what! Focus on yourself and your goals and ambitions! If you have the passion and determination, nothing and no one can stop you! Another part of my identity is being a first-generation college student. This has been a challenge as first-gens are given an immense amount of pressure to go to college and graduate on time! It can be overwhelming at times but it always pushes me even more to do well! Being one of the first ones in my family to go to college is a huge honor of mine and it makes me who I am! My advice would be to use all that pressure and worries as fuel for your dedication to follow through with your goals as a college student and beyond!"

How have you benefited from diversity?

"There are many different benefits to diversity! Diversity makes you feel like you are not alone in a large crowd of people! You feel like people really understand you and what you’ve been through! You meet people who share your experiences and people that have had entirely different experiences! Diversity has made me feel good when I see people like me in our college and I can relate to them. This is very important for me as I am in Pomona all by myself! My family and loved ones are all in Northern California. This makes it difficult because I really do feel alone at times but when I’m around people who are like me, I am able to find my community and do not feel alone! I have made many special connections at Collins College and on campus to help with these feelings of isolation!"

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"I would definitely recommend being involved and apart of all of the Collins College student clubs! They are key to building connections and networking! Finding people who share similar interests is very important in this industry! The opportunities they provide are wonderful for your time as a student and for your future career outside of college! Being a part of EOP is very beneficial for first-generation students! You will get access to opportunities that were designed to make college less stressful and help you succeed as a first-generation student! Take advantage of those opportunities!"

Naman Pandadiya

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am a first generation Asian- Indian born and raised in San Diego. I am also a first-generation college student"

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"DEI to me is something that everyone recognizes on campus. DEI means advocating for those who can’t advocate for themselves!"

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"In thinking about stereotypes related Asian Indians, one of my biggest challenges has been becoming a model minority child—it is expected that we get all A’s."

How have you benefited from diversity?

"I’m in a business club SMIC at the moment and a guest speaker from a finance company visited us for a presentation. When I met him, I was able to speak with him 1-on1 and speak with him about where he is from. I asked about his experiences and I learned that we were from similar places in India. This helped me connect with him and opened the doors for future opportunities for me."

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"Students should join organizations for their own benefit. I don’t think they should merely be joining a club because they share the same diversity values. The career center has helped me navigate the skills I have and gain a competitive advantage for future job opportunities."

James Yokoyama

Describe your background or self-identification:

"Japanese-American"

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"All people regardless of race or sexual orientations are allowed to express who they truly are and; they are able to thrive physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually on this college campus and all have the opportunity to succeed."

How have you benefited from diversity?

"Now that Anime is more popular, Japanese culture and language is highly accepted."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"Asian American Cultural Center. Any Cultural clubs down the hill."

Samantha Cheng

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am Chinese and Vietnamese. My dad is Chinese American and was born in Vietnam. My mom is Vietnamese American—they both immigrated to America when they were very young."

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"DEI means the welcoming of everyone despite race, sexual orientation, gender, disability, and more."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"I have a mild form autism and social skills were very difficult for me to manage as a young child. I think I was considered weird, but now as a young adult I am more independent, can make my own decisions and am able to interact with others!"

How have you benefited from diversity?

"Diversity has benefited me as it made feel welcomed and also realize that there are other people that are similar to me in terms of race and disability."

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"The Disability Resource Center helps me with the accommodations I need and I am able to speak with people who have similar disabilities as me—we are simply people who are overcoming challenges and want to have a life!"

E'Lisha Fogle

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am an African American cisgender Christian woman who is also a first-generation college graduate."

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"DEI is an opportunity for understanding, growth and compassion for and towards those who are different from yourself."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"Though it might be surprising, I actually encountered the most identity crises on my first and second trips to Africa while visiting Zambia. Even though racially, I identified similarly to the people there as a Black person of color, my nationality and socializations as a U.S. American citizen strongly influenced how I was perceived. I hoped to be accepted by the communities of people there because sometimes I feel unaccepted here in the U.S. At first, I had no clue what people thought of me and that was a tough environment to live in, emotionally."

How have you benefited from diversity?

"Diversity, in my opinion, always benefits me! I believe it can be useful in every situation--the classroom, workplace and beyond. If everyone had a singular perspective or background imagine how limited and simplistic our world and people's mindsets would be... Diversity is discerning!"

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"National Society of Minorities in Hospitality; National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners; any Greek organization that facilitates growth, learning about and supports others; Big Brothers Big Sisters of America."

Peter Anderson

Describe your background or self-identification:

"White, Old, LGBTQ+, Veteran"

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"Acknowledging the uniqueness we all have, appreciating there is no "normal" from which we are evaluated, understanding all stakeholders are equal, independent of amount of representation."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"As a gay man who was also a Lieutenant in the United States Navy... yes. This was before don't ask l don't tell. I did neither."

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"I would consider a veterans student union, as many veterans have issues coming back into an unstructured environment where they tend to be older. LGBTQ student union? Glee Club (LOL)."

Ashley Kim

Describe your background or self-identification:

"I am Korean-American, second-generation immigrant. I am also a Christian and find myself to be very rooted in my Korean-Christian community which prominently exists in Southern California."

What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you?

"DEI to me is learning to love and accept the different qualities and characteristics that our peers hold."

How have you benefited from diversity?

"Diversity has benefited me by giving me numerous opportunities to join unique communities in which I belong."

How have you navigated through any challenges you've experienced because of your identity?

"I have experienced challenges with my identity in finding confidence in who I am--as a person of color--as well as holding any belief that is found to be the minority in a group. I have learned to navigate through these situations by finding confidence in myself as I have grown in loving who I am and what I stand for."

What affinity groups would you recommend to someone who shares similar identities as you?

"On Cal Poly Pomona campus, I am a member of the organizations: the National Society of Minorities in Hospitality, as well as SOON Movement Global. In NSMH, I was able to hear stories and meet peers of similar backgrounds and experiences growing and see how we can support one another as we build our careers. In SOON, I have found a family that I can walk alongside throughout life."