In the Department of Communication Disorders, we are dedicated to the doctrine of belonging through advancing the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In line with and in collaboration with the BYU Office of Belonging, BYU Undergraduate Education, McKay School of Education, and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, students serving as Belonging Ambassadors in our department strive to "create and support an environment of belonging" (BYU Statement on Belonging) for all our students, faculty, and staff.
Our Belonging Ambassadors are committed to the mission of the department which is "building belonging, achievement and growth through Christlike service" (COMD Mission Statement).
Their work focuses on:
Promoting Inclusion and Belonging
Our Ambassadors actively work to foster a sense of belonging for historically under-represented groups within the Department of Communication Disorders. They recognize the importance of and need for diverse experiences and perspectives in our profession and are dedicated to addressing this need. Their goal is for all students to feel belonging through their interactions with other students, faculty, and staff.
Enhancing Cultural Education
We believe that enhancing the cultural education experience of BYU students to meet the demands of society is paramount. Our Belonging Ambassadors play a crucial role in enhancing the cultural educational experience for our students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to excel.
Meet our Belonging Ambassador
Alexa Darracq-Vainerere
Belonging Ambassadors support the peer mentoring program, plan the orientation meeting for new ComD majors, organize connection events, coordinate student activities with other student groups in the department, and many other good things. Look for ComD Connection events such as Men in ComD, Women in ComD, POC/Multicultural Students, etc. to connect with students and faculty across the department.
Feel free to contact me at comdbelonging@byu.edu. I are here to support and facilitate an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone within the Department of Communication Disorders.