Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee 

At Wharton Center, we feel a profound sense of responsibility to the mission of our founders to bring the arts to the entire community and to be a space where people can be their authentic selves. We recognize the arts are a catalyst for connection that can bring forward positive change.

We are committed to:

• Engaging artists who contribute to the strength of our community
• Celebrating the lived experiences of every individual
• Supporting your access to the transformative power of live performing arts 

The performing arts are a dimension of culture that, when meaningfully exposed, provide you with a more meaningful existence on this planet.

Dr. Clifton and Dolores Wharton

The goal of the Wharton Center Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is to help Wharton Center staff create a safe and welcoming community for all students, faculty, staff, and the general public.

Priorities include assistance in providing programming that advocates a sense of belonging, developing policies and procedures for ensuring a safe and hospitable environment, assisting in the recruiting efforts of diverse candidates for open staff positions, and identifying learning opportunities for the continued development of Wharton Center staff and volunteers. The committee will work closely with Wharton Center's volunteer leadership, including the Advisory Council, to create positive change. 

Commitee Members

Marvin McKinney, Chair
Outreach & Engagement Strategic Investment,
Michigan State University

Shaun Darling
MSU Federal Credit Union

Cathleen Dungy 
Dungy Technology Services LLC

Carmine Eason
MSU Health Team

Elaine Hardy
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Affairs Administrator
City of East Lansing

Racha Kardahji
Redhead Design Studio

Robin Miner-Swartz
Miner-Swartz Editing & Consulting

Connie Sung
Office of Rehabilitation and Disabilities Studies
MSU College of Education

Richard Weingartner
MESSA

Angela Witwer
House of Representatives