LAST THURSDAY I had the opportunity to attend a welcome reception in a Pavilion hosted by the HUES Leadership Network for Women of Color. Not familiar with the organization, I went in not knowing what to expect and came out with an even more ambiguous picture of the group -- one of affirmative leadership development for the next generation mixed with a keynote speech of acerbic, derisive oratory.
According to the University Women's Center Web site, HUES "seeks to provide business development and career-focused mentoring for undergraduate women of color and hopes to increase connections among women of color in the University, Charlottesville, and surrounding areas." It was formed at the "request of UVa. women of color," which HUES defines as "women who do not consider themselves white." This aim is certainly laudable and admirable.
The welcome reception, the first event of the year, was designed to introduce new and prospective members to HUES staff and associated faculty members, according to an e-mail advertising the event, as well as to learn more about the program and future events, according to the Women's Center calendar.
During the formal part of the evening, the HUES staff, as well as staff from the Women's Center and faculty members involved with these organizations, spoke briefly about the group and its mission. Rosemary Millar, the HUES graduate coordinator, told the audience about the mentoring program, in which undergraduate students are paired with graduate, Law, Darden students, or faculty members. This initiative is an effective way to provide minority undergraduates with a role model who can advise them on important education and career decisions and just lend a listening ear during a time of need.
The events that HUES organizes throughout the year, including a graduate/professional panel, a Law School panel, and a faculty-student dinner are also wonderful programs with noble intentions -- to expose students to a network of older, more experienced individuals who can share their insight and knowledge with them. Millar stressed the importance of these events in a phone interview, stating, "Women of color do have a unique experience
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