Providing ‘a second home’ for Black students at Seneca | MyNews | Seneca Students

In the days after George Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, Darcey Dachyshyn, Professor, School of Early Childhood Education (ECE), challenged the ECE faculty to address issues negatively affecting the Black community – with a focus on students and alumni.

In addressing this important work, there were concerns about re-triggering students and being able to address their concerns adequately. There would certainly be some uncomfortable conversations.

Nevertheless, faculty got to work. They asked Black students and alumni from the school to share their experiences through interviews and surveys. Respondents identified gaps in areas like inclusion, retention and validation.

Results were shared with the School of ECE, and Chair Mary Fisher responded with a commitment to increase Black representation in course content, hires and student support – all priorities aligning with the Seneca Au Large pillar to build the equitable Seneca.

ECE Professor Josephine Muhaya was motivated by these conversations and went a step further.

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