I am a doctoral student in the College of Communication and Information Sciences in the School of Library and Information Studies at the University of Alabama. I have created this Diversity & Inclusion ePortfolio (D&P-eP) as part of my work for the CIS 650 (Applying Diversity Leadership Theories & Praxis) course in the spring 2025 semester.
In my D&P-eP I analyze existing diversity and inclusion responses to the population of individuals residing in the rural geographic location of Southern Appalachia, who are served by the Polk County Public Libraries located in Polk County, North Carolina. I also propose a range of responsive strategies to further cultural competence and effective leadership in the diverse workforce environment. As part of my analysis I critically evaluate a variety of existing information responses (e.g., collections, services, programs, resources, policies, and best practices) to ensure equality/equity of representation, access, and information use of diverse stakeholders in my community-centered organizational setting. I also develop a strategic diversity action plan for the information organization to identify future directions of progressive growth and professional practice.