Caitlin Taylor
Career Services Coordinator
School of Music, Theatre & Dance
Being your best DEI self: Think of a time when you were at your best at advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. What happened? Who was there? Why did you feel at your best?
When I was at my best at advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion I co-founded an anti-racism discussion group for School of Music, Theatre & Dance Staff with two of my amazing colleagues, Robin Myrick and Rikki Morrow-Spitzer. The group meets monthly and is a space for all SMTD Staff to meet, talk about race, and learn how to be anti-racist in our community. I feel at my best when I work with others to build a coalition and work to make long-term changes.
Wishes for the future: How would you imagine your environment needing to be for you to feel that you don’t have to do DEI work anymore?
I don’t foresee a time when I will feel that I don’t need to do DEI work, but I do not feel that is a negative thing. Learning about DEI is a lifelong endeavor, as conversation and expectations around race, gender, sexuality, disability, and other identities are constantly evolving. Progress is always moving forward, and as such the work of DEI does not have an end point. Since my background is as an artist, a commitment to lifelong learning is an exciting opportunity.
What does it mean to you to be a recipient of the MLK Spirit Awards?
I am deeply honored to receive this award. I am generally uncomfortable receiving recognition for my work, since I recognize so much of my success has been due to the work and efforts of many others. Even so, I see this award as a marker that I am on the right path.