I well understand the need and responsibility for every faculty person to actively engage in service to the University. I believe I have served Emory well in a variety of ways and capacities. During my early years at Emory, I was heavily involved in campus-wide committees and even served as Chair of the President’s Commission on the Status of Minorities. Since then, I have continued to serve Emory at the Department, campus, and University levels.
Emory University’s support of my efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive community is illustrated in my appointment as Artistic Director of the National Black Arts Festival (the largest African American cultural festival of its kind in the world) and most recently the Atlanta Music Festival. This work continues to bring national and international accolades for Emory University and its community partnerships. I believe such efforts presents a useful model for universities around the country.