ICYMI, Mary Grace Almandrez joined us as the new vice president for diversity and inclusion on June 1. She’s been all over campus meeting students these last few weeks, but in case you haven’t had the chance to meet her yet, The Peel asked Mary Grace some questions so you can get to know her!
Q: What enticed you to take on this role at Syracuse University?
A: Vice President Cerri Banks played a pivotal role in my decision to work at Syracuse. She spoke highly of the students, her colleagues and Chancellor Syverud. She also praised Syracuse University for its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. Her endorsement was a major factor in my decision.
Q: Seeing as your life and career have taken you to many different states across the country, what has been your favorite state to live in and why?
A: California is my favorite because it’s home to me. I grew up in southern California and lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for almost a decade. As an Asian American and former student leader, California also has historical significance. Oftentimes, the Statue of Liberty is used as an icon of immigration to the United States. As a Filipina, the Golden Gate Bridge has more significance to me. I first arrived in the United States in the Bay Area. I am also proud of the state’s legacy of student activism. The interethnic solidarity among students of color at San Francisco State University and University of California, Berkeley that formed the Third World Liberation Front resulted in the establishment of the first ethnic studies program in the United States.
Q: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A: One of my mentors told me that social justice is hard and heart work, so I need to ground the work in love.
Q: What does “diversity and inclusion” mean to you?
A: “Diversity” refers to individual identities and social group memberships. “Inclusion” includes ensuring that those who will experience the greatest impact of key decisions have access to resources, are afforded opportunities for full participation to contribute in meaningful ways, and have agency and authority in those decision-making processes.
Q: What is your favorite place on campus and why?
A: . Spaces such as 119 Euclid provide opportunities for Black students to gather, study, hold meetings and attend events. It is a place of liberation, rejuvenation and solidarity. The care that students take in honoring that space makes it quite special.
Q: What book have you read recently that really stuck with you?
A: I recently reread “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi, which I liked better than “Transcendent Kingdom.” Gyasi is a gifted storyteller. I also love reading books from authors who write stories about those who navigate liminality, such as the immigrant experience.
Q: If someone were to make a movie about your life, what celebrity would you want to play you?
Tia Carrere. She is probably best known for her character in “Wayne’s World” but recently starred in “Easter Sunday,” which featured a number of Filipino actors such as herself.
Lightning Round: This or That?
Football or basketball? Football
East Coast or West Coast? West Coast
Starbucks or Dunkin? Starbucks
Syracuse falls or Syracuse winters? I haven’t experienced either yet, so TBD!
Watch a movie at home or in a theater? At home
Looking for other ways to connect with Mary Grace and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion? Visit the and don’t miss , a campus conversation hosted by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion on Friday, October 28!Â