DEI Week Events

Monday, March 24

DEI Panel Kickoff

Hear from diverse professionals on their personal and professional experiences with DEI.

  • Location: BHH 301/302 + Zoom
  • Time: 12:00pm
  • Panelists:
    • Dr. Sangeeta Kalsi, MD, M.P.H, Ophthalmologist
    • Dr. Yamaguchi, DPT, Physical Therapist
    • Yaritza Rodriguez, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Holistic Trauma Therapist  
  • Topic: Personal and professional experiences with DEI, challenges, and advocacy
  • Food: Famous Burger & Teriyaki

Tuesday, March 25

Ableism Talk

Learn from Dr. Fleckenstein as she addresses how ableism affects our society and how we can challenge it.

  • Location: MLC 150
  • Time: 12:00pm
  • Speaker/Facilitator: Dr. Fleckenstein, DPT, DHSc, SCS 
  • Topic: Understanding and Addressing Ableism in Society
  • Food: Fiesta Foods Taquiza

Wednesday, March 26

Deaf Awareness Discussion

Discover the importance of deaf awareness and accessibility in our community.

  • Location: DDEH 226
  • Time: 12:00pm
  • Speaker: Rodney Thompson, AU.D, CCC-A, FAAA, Certified Clinical Audiologist 
  • Topic: The importance of Deaf awareness and accessibility
  • Food: Jimmy Johns

Thursday, March 27

Holi Celebration

Hands-On Workshop with Assistive Devices & Adaptive Equipment

Learn about tools for inclusivity and engage with OT and DPT faculty/students.

  • Location: MLC and OT Room
  • Time: 12:00pm
  • Partner: OT and DPT Faculty/Students
  • Topic: Hands-on engagement with adaptive tools for inclusivity

Holi Celebration (Weekday Evening Activity)

  • Location: BHH Back Patio
  • Time: 5:30pm
  • Activities: Color throwing, cultural storytelling, and celebration of diversity
    • Note: Wear white or any light colors that you don’t mind getting color on! 
  • Facilitators: SAMSA
  • Food: Taj Palace

Friday, March 28

Basket Weaving Workshop

From basket weaving workshops to a celebration of Japanese heritage, we’ll highlight the importance of creative and cultural expression in our community.

  • Location: WAT 117
  • Time: 12:00pm
  • Facilitator: Bessie Bill
  • Topic: Cultural significance and artistic techniques
  • Note: 30 people maximum – signup required

Yakima Buddhist Temple Insights

  • Location: BHH 301/302
  • Time: 12:00pm
  • Facilitator: Lon Inaba
  • Topic: Heritage of Japanese Pioneers and Growing up in the Buddhist Church
  • Food: Tea Garden Thai Food

Friday Evening: Open Mic & Spoken Word Event

  • Location: BHH Foyer, 301/302
  • Time: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
  • Theme: Personal stories, identity, and expression
  • Speakers:
    • Dr. Robbyn Wacker, PhD
    • Dr. Wayne Miller, PhD
    • DEIB Student Council
    • and YOU!
  • Food: Catherine’s Kitchen