(Posted September 21, 2016)

A Class of 2020 goal.
Photo by Anisah Pasquale
A Class of 2020 goal.
Photo by Anisah Pasquale

The Juniata Class, or “Constellation,” of 2020 has defined their goals and written them on paper stars in preparation for their journey at Juniata. The “Constellation 2020” display can be found in Ellis Hall right by the Information Desk.

The goals were written as part of a Diversity and Inclusiveness Panel that was required for all freshmen. The students sat for an almost four-hour talk that included a multitude of speakers. Professors, faculty members, alumni and several participants from last year’s Bailey Oratorical Contest spoke to the freshmen about various diversity-based subjects.  

Looking at the stars and the messages students wrote, the idea of inclusivity really stands out. Most of the messages on the stars focused on listening to others, and being there for friends. One star read “Listen to others, accept them for who they are, and love them.” Another said that “I will get to know people, instead of making assumptions about them.”

These promises of understanding and listening plastered on a wall gives hope to a class full of respectful, open-minded freshman who want to work to make the Juniata College’s campus even more of an accepting and welcoming community. Every class brings its own attitude and uniqueness to the college, and for the “Constellation of 2020”, that’s their dedication to being there for one another.

There are a few that stray from the path of understanding and welcoming, focusing more on personal goals such as “being strong,” “remembering the past” and “becoming friends with all whom I am able.”

One freshman, Justine Hibbard, said “I really like the ‘Constellation 2020’ wall because it proves that a diverse environment with people from all different backgrounds can be brought together when they share a common belief.  Our differences do not isolate us from one another, but in fact bring us closer together and allow us to learn from each other and grow. I love going through and reading the stars that make up the brilliant constellation because it allows me to see things from another perspective, thus gaining a new outlook.”

 Isabella Bennett, Juniata Online Journalist 

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Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.