The Haitian Diaspora: The Art of Thriving Between Two Worlds and Cultures Presented by Springfield College Vice President for Student Affairs Slandie Dieujuste
On Thursday, Feb. 10, Slandie Dieujuste, PhD, Springfield College Vice President for Student Affairs, hosted a presentation titled, "The Haitian Diaspora: The Art of Thriving Between Two Worlds and Cultures."
Springfield College is hosting multiple events to celebrate Black History Month at Springfield College happening in person and virtually in February. These free events, which are open to the Springfield College community and the public, are sponsored by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
On Thursday, Feb. 10, Slandie Dieujuste, PhD, Springfield College Vice President for Student Affairs, hosted a presentation titled, "The Haitian Diaspora: The Art of Thriving Between Two Worlds and Cultures."
As part of the lecture, it was referenced how the experience of the Haitian diaspora in America is often marked by racism, oppression, and even discrimination perpetuated by other marginalized ethnic groups. Rising above the trauma requires grit and a firm determination to push through the fatigue often resulting from the constant efforts of having to dismantle harmful narratives about Haiti and what it means to be Haitian-American.
In her presentation, Dieujuste highlighted the struggles of the Haitian diaspora and the resilience and agility that characterize their bi-cultural experience. She also connected her quest for authenticity to the experience of other traditionally marginalized college students in their journey towards self-discovery, acceptance, and self-love.
"Dr. Slandie's presentation was interesting and eye-opening," said Springfield College health sciences major and student-athlete Mikaili Charlemagne, who introduced Dieujuste as part of the event. "I liked that she paired together her lived experiences of being a Haitian American with some history of Haiti and its people. Something that stood out to me was Dr. Slandie's points about the 'Art of Demele' and how she uses it in her life. As a BIPOC student listening to this presentation and seeing how far Dr. Slandie has come in her career has motivated me to continue pushing through to achieve my goals."
Dieujuste has held numerous leadership positions at both private and public institutions. Prior to coming to Springfield College, she served as the vice provost for student affairs at Massasoit Community College. Dieujuste was born in Haiti and is fluent in Haitian Creole and proficient in French. She grew up in Boston and takes great pride in her hyphenated experience. Dieujuste received her PhD in higher education administration from Andrews University and a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts from Boston College.
