Explaining the role of the new EDI Student Advisor and working towards equity.
In February 2023, Mt. A hired Lucy Ofori as the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Student Advisor. Ofori was born in Brampton, Ontario and was raised by her Ghanaian parents who immigrated to Canada. She has extensive work experience ranging from volunteering with LGBT Youthline, being a community coordinator with a BIWOC-lead organization, and holding various internships that involve coordinating events. Ofori also holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from McMaster University and has earned an EDI certificate from Essex Business School.
“It was ingrained in me from a young age that community and caring for others is an important aspect of life,” Ofori said. Her role at Mt. A is to provide “one-on-one advising, support, and referrals to BIPOC and other equity deserving students.”
Ofori works with student clubs and societies on campus and is qualified to deliver education and training on systemic racism and microaggressions. She also works closely with the International Center and can connect students to volunteer opportunities and peer mentors that are on and off campus.
During her time at Mt. A, Ofori hopes to uplift student voices and “create those all-important safe community spaces. I want students to know that I am here to put their words into action.”
Ofori noted that “this month, we’re celebrating Black Mt. A graduates in a ceremony that recognizes their achievements not only as scholars but also as Black youth excelling in predominantly white areas.” She intends to make this an annual event.
Aside from her advocacy work, Ofori is a neurodivergent, queer, Black woman who enjoys spending time with her partner and cats. Some of her hobbies include “hiking, kayaking, and gaming. I’ve also just recently got into baking,” she said.
Ofori is looking forward to the fact that she can help represent students’ passion for equity and safe spaces on campus, and work towards empowering students to be their most authentic selves safely and proudly at Mt. A. She said, “holding the position of EDI Student Advisor at a renowned university like Mt. A is a signal that marginalized communities have the power to make their own change.”
Students can get in contact with Ofori by email ([email protected]) or visit her office in room 291 of the Wallace McCain Student Centre. Students can also book an appointment with her at https://calendly.com/lucyofori.
