Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Conference

4 people standing in a circle talking
Please note this event occurred in the past.
September 17, 2025 11:00 am - September 18, 2025 4:00 pm ET
session descriptions session descriptions
Student Union Ballroom and Campus Center

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED.

Hosted by the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) in collaboration with campus-wide partners, the JEDI Conference affirms the university’s commitment to equity and inclusion. It aims to: 

  • Build community and connection across campus
  • Showcase campus resources supporting equity and inclusion
  • Promote a sense of belonging for all members of the UMass community 

ALL ARE WELCOME!

Conference Schedule

September 17, 2025

Watch the Livestream starting at noon.

11:00 AM: Pre-Conference Student Poster Session and Building Bridges
Student Union Ballroom

12:00 PM: Welcome remarks, lunch and "Understanding Wellbeing: Insights and Actions from UMass Amherst Student Data"
Presented by Amanda Waters, Director of University Mental Health Promotion and Wellness Administration.
 
1:15 PM: "Faith and Civic Engagement: Reflections From a Lifetime of Activism"
Presented by Rev. Dr. Andrea Ayvazian, Ministerial Team, Alden Baptist Church, Springfield, and founder and director of the Sojourner Truth School for Social Change Leadership. 
 
2:45 PM: "Legal Updates on Anti-Discrimination Law"
Presented by Karen Laisne, Associate Counsel in the UMass Office of the General Counsel and Allison Lepper, Amherst Deputy General Counsel at University of Massachusetts.

September 18, 2025

Livestream not available this day.

8:45 AM: Check in and Breakfast Available
Campus Center Lower Level

10:00 AM–4:00 PM: Workshops and Community-Led Sessions
Campus Center Lower Level - Various Rooms | Session Descriptions

12:15-1:30 PM: Lunch Leadership Panel Discussion
Building an Inclusive UMass Community: Opportunities and Challenges 
Campus Center Amherst Room

Watch the Livestream

Can't make it in person? Tune in for the September 17 livestream, or watch at your leisure another time.

Watch Here Watch Here