
World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
(World Diversity Day)
“Listening and Healing Across Differenceâ€
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 9:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Overview
World Diversity Day at Governors State University is a dialogue-rich, day-long experience celebrating cultural diversity, pluralism, and collective well-being. Through panel discussions, breakout sessions, reflective activities, music, and community dialogue, participants will explore themes of racial healing, wellness, restorative justice, and public health.
Attendees may earn a digital badge, micro-credentials and continuing professional development credit while engaging in meaningful learning and connection. The Community Resource Fair will feature local partners, including a Kidney Screening and Vaccination Clinic, offering opportunities to support personal and community health.
Come for a conversation, stay for transformation - join us for a single session or immerse yourself in the full day of dialogue, discovery, and action.
Event Schedule
Doors Open
Time: 8 a.m
Location: Sherman Hall and Hall of Governors
Continental Breakfast Available (RSVP Required)
Time: 8:30 a.m
Location: Sherman Hall Atrium
Research & Resource Fair, Kidney Screening, Vaccine Clinic
Time: 9 a.m – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Opening Why Dialogue Matters Now (RSVP Required)
Time: 9 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: Sherman Hall
Speaker: Dr. Joi Patterson, Chief of Institutional Engagement and Excellence
Cultural Perspectives on Care, Restoration, and Community Panel Discussion (RSVP Required)
Time: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Sherman Hall
Facilitated by:

Joyce C. Ester, Ph.D.
President – Governors State University

Dr. Constance Edwards
Health Perspective

Dr. Ashley Gaddy Robbins
Mental Health Perspective

Father Michael Pfleger
Spiritual Perspective

Dr. Edward Valandra
Indigenous and Restorative Justice Perspective
Break + Research & Resource Fair
Time: 10:30 – 11 a.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Concurrent Dialogue Sessions
Time: 11 – 11:45 a.m.
Location: Various Classrooms
Spoken Word, Community Lunch & Table Dialogue
Time: Noon – 12:45 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Featuring:

Amber Whitted
Concurrent Dialogue Sessions
Time: 1 – 1:45 p.m.
Location: Various Classrooms
Break + Research & Resource Fair
Time: 1:45 – 2:15 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
From Dialogue to Commitment: A Call to Collective Action
Time: 2:15 – 3 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Speaker:

Dr. Candace Smith
Assistant Professor of Educator
Break + Research & Resource Fair
Time: 3 – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors


Free Kidney & Diabetes Screening
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: D1496
Must be 18 years or older
Walk-ins are also welcome
Please go to our website to pre-register and complete your questionnaire prior to screening!
- • Blood pressure
- • Blood Glucose*
- • HbA1c for diabetics
- • Body mass index (BMI)
- • Waist circumference
- • Urinalysis**
- • Blood draw (if necessary)
- *Fasting not required
- **Urine sample will be required
Talk about your results with a health care professional and receive a copy of your test results same day.
For more information, contact the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois at (312) 321-1500 or .
JEWEL OSCO VACCINATION CLINIC
Protect Your Health. Protect Your Family.
Join us for a comprehensive vaccine clinic open to the public. We are providing a wide range of immunizations to keep our community safe and healthy.
When & Where
Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: D1497
Vaccines Available
We are offering immunizations for all stages of life:
- • Respiratory Health: Flu, COVID-19, Pneumonia, and RSV.
- • Pediatric Care: Full suite of Childhood Immunizations.
- • Global Travel: Specialized Travel Vaccines.
Eligibility & Requirements
- • AGES: Open to everyone Ages 4 and older.
- • RESIDENCY: Open to all insured residents and the general public.
- • WHAT TO BRING: Insurance Card (Required)
- ‣ Photo ID
- ‣ Immunization records (recommended for children)
Directions & Parking
Parking: Free parking is available in Lot B or Lot C, which are closest to the D-Wing entrance.
Finding the Room: Enter through the Main D-Wing entrance. Look for directional signage leading to Room D1497 near the Lakeside Lounge area.