Findlay Rolls Out New Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Beginning with 'The Shop'

Findlay, Ohio – The University of Findlay is excited to announce a series of upcoming initiatives that address issues of diversity and inclusion on campus. The first such initiative was launched on Monday, March 29 with 'The Shop', an on campus barbershop focused on providing a space for students to engage with each other while obtaining a haircut free of cost.

"It is a priority on campus and specifically in the Department of Athletics that we are reaching all of our students and providing an environment of inclusivity", commented Director of Athletics Brandi Laurita. "The Shop is the first step in our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts that we will be rolling out over the next year that center around the basic needs of all of our students."

Assistant Football Coach and head of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee Darius Davis said, "This is a big deal for the University of Findlay to recognize an opportunity to be able to provide a service that is usually hard to find in the community for our minority students. It means a lot that Dr. [Katherine] Fell and Mrs. Laurita supported this idea and helped make it a reality. I look forward to working more with Seth Butler [Director of Intercultural Student Services] as we grow to this a more diverse and inclusive campus."

On Monday's opening day, more than 40 students took advantage of the new initiative. Among them was Findlay football player, Christopher Jefferson.

"It means a lot to see our school taking the steps toward equality and inclusion in such a positive and unexpected way", Jefferson said. "It lets us know that the steps being taken will have the ability to only get bigger and more welcoming for classes to come."

Another attendee of the shop was defensive lineman, Ervin Besingi. "Sometimes with school, among other things, students can become stressed out. This initiative shows that the school listens to the needs of the students and that they care about our well-being."

'The Shop' will be open on the first and third Monday's of every month.