College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Office of Culture, Access and Belonging

“The 3 C’s of life are choices, chances and changes. You must make a choice to take a chance or your life will never change.” – Author unknown

The Triple Challenge

Greetings from the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Months ago, I made the choice to be a part of this university and state – taking a chance on an opportunity, a college, and embarking on a journey unaware of where it may lead me. Obviously, there was this attraction of being a part of the pioneer land-grant institution.

Though, being a part of a team working, driving, and fostering a culture where every member of our college feels valued and inspired to achieve individual and common goals was and has always been my targeted ambition. I knew that if I never made the choice to leave where I was comfortable, true growth would never happen, and my life would never change and reach its full potential.

Within the first few weeks, I was able to visit with the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources departmental leadership and directors. There, we were grasping with the unique challenges that currently face our college and have traditionally served as an impetus for inclusivity in our industry.

These conversations normally involved only discussing challenges, but this time, they focused on strategy and the creation of a blueprint for moving forward. I am equally excited about the passion, energy and willingness to celebrate differences and work together to integrate diversity, equity and inclusion into our culture so it becomes who we are and what we do every day.

Every day presents opportunities for growth, change and the ability to acquire a sense of the green and white cultural fabric of Michigan State University, providing solutions unique to each area. I welcome all input, which is integral in defining a set of goals to collectively focus, unify and drive our efforts.

We are a college and an institution that prides ourselves on attracting the best and brightest faculty and academic staff. This is essential for keeping the institution productive, creative, competitive and successful in our mission to train the next generation of scholars and leaders in every field. However, to do so, we must place diversity, equity and inclusion as the core and guiding force.

Beginning this academic year and looking forward, I reflect on the experiences I have had so far in my role as associate dean and director for diversity, equity and inclusion. The best experiences have been the people who have opened their doors to share with me their perspectives and suggestions on growing a culture of inclusion that can be instrumental in developing it into every unit and department as well as in our research facilities and Extension offices throughout our state.

As we conclude our summer months and head into the academic year, I challenge you to reflect about your personal growth in diversity, equity and inclusion. Continue to embrace your journey no matter how difficult it may seem, and always remember that you may not be there yet, but you are closer than you were yesterday!

– Quentin R. Tyler, PhD

Associate Dean/Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion