Spotlight on Inclusive Excellence: Jean Costa-Silva, Ph.D. Candidate

This month, the Linguistics department recognizes Jean Costa-Silva for our DEI Spotlight feature.

Jean recently completed his Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) training with UGA. The training consists of one mandatory module and four elective modules, allowing trainees to tailor their CDI experience to their interests and background.

One of the most important lessons learned in CDI training, Jean says, is the importance of impact versus intent. Just because someone did not mean anything offensive does not mean that discomfort should be swept under the rug. Jean emphasizes that students, staff, and faculty should feel encouraged to speak up in situations of tension in order to make inclusivity the norm on campus.

“The lessons communicated in CDI training should be a baseline for behavior rather than an exception,” Jean explains. Moreover, the training supports the importance of spaces being created for any and all identities on campus.

Jean seeks to encourage other graduate students to get their Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion. As it is fully online, the certificate is fairly convenient for graduate students to achieve in the midst of other classes and activities. Moreover, CDI training is imperative for future instructors who will be in a position of power and influence over people who might have a variety of different identities.

CDI training is meaningful to both professional and personal development.

Read more here about how you can get your certificate!