DIVERSITY AT LOYOLA BLAKEFIELD

Mr. Mark Harrison, Director

Mark A. Harrison was named Director of Diversity at Loyola Blakefield on July of 2003. Mr. Harrison’s major objectives are to strengthen the individual needs of our students, faculty, families, and alumni populations through a multi-cultural curriculum, non-traditional programming, and mentoring and post-graduate experiences. He embraces the philosophy of “Students First” and works diligently to develop, implement and refine strategies that support this philosophy.

Mr. Harrison is a native of Pittsburgh, Pa. He served three years in the United States Army where he served as a medical technician. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Telecommunications from Morgan State University, and a Master of Arts degree in Education from Towson University.

Prior to joining Loyola BLAKEFIELD, Mr. Harrison’s work experiences included serving as the Academic Coordinator and fourth grade-reading teacher for the Baltimore City School System. The Associate Director of Residence Life/Student Activities at Albany State University, Admissions Coordinator at Strayer College, and Educational Advisor for the United States Air Force.

Active in community and civic activities, Mr. Harrison holds memberships in more the seven (7) professional organizations. He has an extensive listing of professional services, which includes mentoring, public speaking, consulting and research.

“Diversity is not just about being different...It is also about thinking differently!”

Mission Statement:
As a member of the Jesuit Secondary Education Association, we recognize and value the unique presence of each community member that contributes to our diverse school environment. Our institution will foster an atmosphere, which will embrace differences of race, ethnicity, religions, gender, sexual orientation, abilities and socio-economic backgrounds. Loyola Blakefield is a diverse community dedicated to educating boys in mind, body, and spirit through particular emphasis on academic excellence, athletic participation, and aesthetic appreciation. Loyola Blakefield seeks to produce men of character and integrity who have the skills and ability to make positive contributions to the communities in which they live and work in order to build men for others.

The Office of Diversity – Activities and Programs

Student Testimonials

	“I have met some of my best friends while attending Loyola Blakefield.”		“The BSU helps me feel like I’m not alone at Loyola.”
	“Being in a diverse environment helps you to become a better man.”		“Doing community service builds a sense of community and school spirit among the students.”

Programs:

Each year Loyola Blakefield marks the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. with activities that may include guest speakers and community service. I Love Loyola/Spirit Week held each year, The Multi-Cultural Festival held each fall; celebrate all students from a diverse background with a cuisine of many regions.

Partners at LOYOLA BLAKEFIELD

Partners at Loyola Blakefield, now in its second year, reflect the school’s commitment to supporting all students, as we become a truly diverse community. The program will pair lower school students of color, with Upper school students and alumni. Because some of these students may feel isolated, an older buddy can make all the difference in helping them become more comfortable, enabling them to share their unique gifts and talents with all.

Partner activities during the school year include a student leadership summit and retreat, Thanksgiving and Christmas Food and Toy drive, bowling party, a brunch in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. a student vs. faculty/staff basketball game, and end of the year appreciation dinner.

Clubs/Organizations:

Asian Student Union

The Asian Student Union strives to instill in its members a greater appreciation for the Asian Community by offering opportunities for the student to explore, in greater depth. Music, literature, film, and other culture-related activities comprise the agenda.

Black Student Union

The Black Student Union attempts to develop in its members a keener awareness of the heritage, history, and traditions of the African American culture. This is done through meetings and educational activities. In addition, the club attempts to educate the entire student body about the African American experience.

Irish Awareness Club

The mission of The Irish Social Club is to promote camaraderie and friendship among all the students at Loyola Blakefield. Open to any and all students, the club sponsors various activities throughout the year that are intended to provide opportunities to socialize in a variety of settings, both on and off campus.

Italian Awareness Club

The Italian Awareness Club goal is to promote a greater since of appreciation for the Italian Community by developing a bond of friendship from various social events. Open to any and all students, the club strives to educate the young men as the build a bond of kinship.

Student Government Association

The goal of SGA is to serve as a liaison between the faculty and students. Throughout the year SGA primary goals focus on community service projects, social events, and building the bond with ALL students of the Loyola Blakefield community. The SGA members include homeroom representatives and senior board members, which are totally volunteer. All Loyola “Dons” are encouraged to become a member of the Student Government Association.

Amnesty International

Amnesty International is an independent organization that is known worldwide. It is independent of any political, ideological or religious affiliations and is funded by donations from its members and supporters around the world. Membership in the group shall be open to any students, faculty member, administrator or staff person of Loyola Blakefield regardless of race, sex, creed, national origin, age or handicap.

Diversity Calendar of Events and Activities 2003-04

Month/Date Event Location Time

August 17, 2003 Celebrating Multiculturalism - Brunch Wheeler Lounge 10:30 am

November 3, 2003 –November 22, 2003 St. Gregory Thanksgiving Food Drive Community Service Project On-going Activity

November 14, 2003 Student Leadership Conference New Psalmist Baptist Church 9:00 am

November 24, 2003 –November 26, 2003 Spirit Week – I LOVE LOYOLA BLAKEFIELD School Wide On–going Activities

December 1, 2003 –December 19, 2003 St. Gregory Christmas Toy Drive Community Service Project On-going Activities

January 21, 2004 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Assembly Knott Hall Performance Gymnasium 9:00 amSchool wide Assembly

February 21, 2004 Foods Around the World Wheeler Lounge 7:00 pm

April 23, 2004 Faculty/Staff vs. Student Basketball Game Knott Hall Performance Gymnasium 7:00 pm

May 13, 2004 Celebration Dinner for Clubs and Organizations Knott Hall Dinning Hall 7:00 pm

** All Dates/Events are tentative and subject to change**

The Office of Diversity certainly appreciates the help of all families and community sponsors. If you would like to reach the Office of Diversity, please contact Mr. Harrison at 443-841-3294 or mharrison@blakefield.loyola.edu