MindOpen is proud to feature the work of our summer interns who learned about running a social justice consulting firm. The following blog “The Value of DEI” by Ava Campos provides perspective on the positive impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, powerfully countering the current backlash against these efforts.
About the author:
Ava Campos is a Biotechnology & Molecular Bioscience BS student at Rochester Institute of Technology, and a future forensic scientist. Ava is a graduate of Brooklyn Ascend High School, where she was Valedictorian. As a young black Latina woman who values hard work and honesty Ava's purpose in life is to combine her strengths in listening, analyzing, determination, and communication with her love for exploration and curiosity and to help others and look into life with a fresh perspective.
My DEI Journey: Lessons Learned from RIT and MindOpen
As an assignment for my internship at Mindopen I was asked to write about my experience with DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). In my first semester of college I was enrolled in the class, “Metacognitive Approaches to Science”. Its coursework included thinking techniques used in everyday life decisions we make both as people and scientists, but more so about how we think and building connections. As a student at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) , my experience mirrors the transformative journey I’ve witnessed at MindOpen. Participating in various campus DEI programs has opened my eyes to the importance of creating spaces where all students feel welcomed and valued. Just as at MindOpen, the DEI efforts at RIT have led to more inclusive dialogues and a stronger sense of community. Whether through student-led workshops, diverse representation in student government, or inclusive group projects, these initiatives have fostered an environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated. Building on the momentum of DEI is crucial, both in educational settings and the workplace. My time at RIT, much like my journey at MindOpen, has taught me that institutions of all sizes play a pivotal role in setting the standard for a more just and inclusive society.
I've seen firsthand how small businesses can drive meaningful change toward a more equitable world by participating in marketing meetings, consultations, and more. Working here, I’ve seen how crucial DEI initiatives are in shaping a positive and inclusive workplace. Continuing to prioritize DEI in our daily operations, strategic planning, and social media ensures that every voice is heard and valued. As background information for a proposal to work with an organization supporting the independence of people with developmental disabilities, I was assigned to watch the movie “Crip Camp.” . Watching for the first time was a profoundly enlightening experience. The documentary showcased how a small, determined group of individuals at Camp Jened in the 1970s ignited a movement for disability rights and inclusion that has transformed society, and seeing it for the first time made me realize how similar this movement was to women's rights, Black rights, and voting rights.
The Importance of Intentionality
Similarly, my involvement with DEI at RIT has made me feel more welcome even at a PWI (Predominantly White Institution). By joining empowering clubs like Women in Technology and The League of Curly-Haired students I was able to connect with people beyond just school and feel more included. The cultural shifts at both MindOpen and RIT have led to more open dialogues and a stronger sense of community—paralleling the journey of the disability rights movement as depicted in “Crip Camp.” By connecting my educational experiences and my professional journey I'm able to understand the profound impact of DEI initiatives and the importance of continuing to prioritize them in every aspect of our lives.
Let’s not stop here. Whether you’re in a small business, a university, or a community organization, there’s always more we can do to foster inclusion and equity. Take the next step—get involved in DEI initiatives, advocate for fair practices, and ensure that every voice in your space is heard and valued. Together, we can build a more just and inclusive society, one action at a time.
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