Design Diversity was started in late 2013 by a small group of Cleveland architects, urban designers, planners and graphic designers of various ethnic backgrounds to grow the local community of African American designers. In order to achieve the initiative's goal, Design Diversity will:
– EDUCATE the African American community, specifically youth, about the range of design professions
– CONNECT pr
ofessionals within the various design fields
– CELEBRATE and acknowledge successes of African American designers
The Design Diversity initiative is led by an Advisory Committee, which meets monthly at Kent State University's Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative. The ongoing work of the initiative is delegated to four subcommittees, each directed by a chair or co-chairs. Programming | co-chairs: Jennifer Coleman & David Jurca
Oversee program development and priorities inline with the goal of Design Diversity, including the calendar and structure of the events. Keep committees informed and focused on accomplishing the objectives of the programming and what is needed to do so. Fundraising | chair: Diane Davis-Sikora
Identifies and solicits funds from various sources to support the efforts of Design Diversity. Create a plan/action steps and deadlines for funding. Work with CUDC to collaborate these efforts and allocation of the use of funds. Distribute letters and collection of funds towards these efforts. Marketing | chair: Arlene Watson
Development and implement various materials and supporting messages to raise the awareness of Design Diversity 2014. Identify opportunities for promotion and ways to support those with media and programing. Supports all committee with ideas and materials to build and keep a consistent and reputable image for Design Diversity. Education and Community Engagement | chair: Jud Kline
Identify, build and foster strong and strategic relationships with various target audiences, including the design community, educational institutions, businesses and other key stakeholders. Help promote the value of Design Diversity. Identify opportunities for, and individuals to, volunteer and serve the objectives of various committees.
