Psychologist Dr. Christina Edmondson, an experienced educator and diversity, equity and inclusion consultant, will explore how to combat racism constructively as a community of faith on Monday, Sept. 26, at 7 p.m. in the Maas Center auditorium at Hope College.
The public is invited. Admission is free.
Edmondson will present “Pursuing Faithful Antiracism in a College Setting” as the college’s annual Green Lecture on Faith, Race and Community. As explained in the address’s summary, “In our current cultural climate, there is an ever-increasing need to talk about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Though these topics are imperative to building a healthy, sustainable, and inclusive society, they are becoming harder than ever to talk about without immense tension arising. How can we come together to combat racism while solidifying our foundation in faith and strengthening our communities?”
Edmondson holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Tennessee State University, a Master of Science degree from the University of Rochester in family therapy and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Hampton University. For over decade, she has served in a variety of roles including recently as the dean for intercultural student development at Calvin University. Within the higher education sphere, she continues to serve as an instructor and partners with several universities to develop ethical and impactful leaders. Additionally, a Certified Cultural Intelligence facilitator, public speaker and mental health therapist, Edmondson is often contacted by churches to consult about leadership development, anti-racism, and mental health issues.
She is the co-author of the books “Truth’s Table: Black Women’s Musings on Life, Lover, and Liberation” and “Faithful Antiracism: Moving Past Talk to Systemic Change,” and her writing has been seen and referenced in a variety of outlets including Essence.com, YourBlackWorld.com, and Gospel Today magazine. She is also one of the co-hosts of the Truth's Table podcast.
First held in 2019, the Green Lecture on Faith, Race and Community is sponsored by the college’s American Ethnic Studies program and Phelps Scholars Program. The annual lecture series is named in honor of Dr. Chuck Green, who retired in December 2021 as professor emeritus of psychology after teaching at the college since 1983. He was founding director of the Phelps Scholars Program, which he led from 1998 through 2013, and emphasized teaching and advocacy around issues of diversity and inclusion across his nearly four decades at Hope.
The American Ethnic Studies (AES) program is an interdisciplinary minor that teaches skills to research, analyze and reflect on the heritage of racialized ethnic cultures in America. The program is designed to develop citizens, participants and activists who strive daily to build community, both locally and nationally, in the pursuit of justice and equality.
The Phelps Scholars Program is a unique combination of residential life, academic engagement and social activities that prepares students to be leaders in an increasingly global society. Phelps Scholars make a one-year commitment to live in community with others from a broad range of cultural backgrounds, and they explore together the issues of diversity that shape the world.
Audience members who need assistance to fully enjoy any event at Hope are encouraged to contact the college’s Events and Conferences Office by emailing events@hope.edu or calling 616-395-7222 on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Updates related to events are posted when available in the individual listings at hope.edu/calendar
The Maas Center is located at 264 Columbia Ave., between 10th and 13th streets.