Dr. Linwood B. Whitten named to the NASPA Black Diaspora Knowledge Community Stellar 50
The National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) has named Lake Michigan College Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Linwood B. Whitten to its prestigious Black Diaspora Knowledge Community Stellar 50. This esteemed recognition underscores Dr. Whitten's commitment to servant leadership and impact on higher education and student affairs.
The Black Diaspora Knowledge Community (BDKC) serves as a beacon of awareness and appreciation for the unique challenges of Black professionals in higher education and student affairs. By fostering dialogue, sharing innovative research, and nurturing mentorship, the BDKC empowers NASPA members to navigate the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"I am deeply humbled by this recognition from NASPA and the Black Diaspora Knowledge Community," Dr. Whitten said. "My mission has always been to ensure every student thrives and flourishes, and this acknowledgment reinforces our collective dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment at Lake Michigan College."
To earn a place among the Stellar 50, recipients must work at least five years in the student affairs profession and make a tangible impact in their professional and philanthropic endeavors. In addition, Stellar 50 recipients uphold the NASPA BDKC's strategic initiatives, including professional development and engagement, equity, inclusion, and social justice, and research and scholarship.
The announcement of the Stellar 50 honorees took place during the NASPA Annual Conference earlier this month in Seattle.
As Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Whitten oversees various vital services at LMC, including admissions, advising, student life, and campus safety. He has a wealth of experience in admissions and recruitment, student affairs, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Before joining LMC, he served as the inaugural Assistant Vice President for Campus Engagement, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Cleveland State University.
About NASPA
NASPA is the professional home for student affairs. Together, we are dedicated to fulfilling the promise of higher education through our guiding principles of Integrity, Innovation, Inclusion, and Inquiry. We place students at the center of our work. We serve the field through exceptional professional development, research to take on our biggest challenges, advocacy for inclusive and equitable practices and communities, and nurturing networks and pipelines to mentor, rejuvenate, and support.
About NASPA BDKC
The NASPA Black Diaspora Knowledge Community (BDKC) seeks to educate the professional community on trends and issues related to Black professionals and students on research, campus issues, and mentoring. Our goal is to connect members of the BDKC while raising awareness for students, staff, administrators, and faculty of color. In addition, we support and recognize colleagues for their contributions and services through our annual awards at the NASPA Annual Conference.
