Welcome to the Michael Tilford Conference on Diversity and Multiculturalism!

tilford conference panel

2024 Tilford Conference

October 3-4, 2024

The Harmony of Uniqueness: Advancing Higher Education through Prioritizing Cultural Innovation and Community Engagement

Join us for two days of insightful discussions, practical workshops, and networking opportunities as we delve into the evolving landscape of higher education during this FREE conference. Together, let's strive to advance multicultural innovation and community engagement in higher education. Join our inspiring journey toward shaping the future of academia through the power of cultural innovation and community engagement, creating a more inclusive and equitable educational environment for all.

 

Learn from our inspiring keynotes

A man with a receding hairline and a bright smile, dressed in a blue blazer and white shirt, poses in front of a plain light gray backdrop.

Dr. M. Lee Pelton, a distinguished speaker, will deliver a powerful keynote address on important themes of diversity and leadership. Watch Session

A man with gray hair and a beard, wearing a dark blazer over a black shirt, sits against a vibrant background divided into blue, beige, and red sections.

Join us for an engaging keynote address by Kevin Willmott, a renowned filmmaker and speaker. Watch Session

About Michael Tilford

Headshot of Michael TilfordThe Michael Tilford Conference is named in honor of Dr. Michael Tilford, a distinguished educator and advocate for multiculturalism and inclusion in higher education. Dr. Tilford's legacy is deeply intertwined with Wichita State University, where he made significant contributions to advancing diversity and inclusion efforts.

As a respected educator and administrator at Wichita State University, Dr. Tilford played a pivotal role in shaping the institution's commitment to diversity and equity. He was instrumental in developing programs and initiatives that promoted multiculturalism and supported underrepresented students.

Dr. Tilford's tireless advocacy for diversity and inclusion continues to inspire us to this day. Through the Michael Tilford Conference, we honor his legacy by continuing to promote dialogue, collaboration, and action in support of diversity and inclusion in higher education.

 

View more info on the purpose and history of the Michael Tilford Conference

Theme

At the heart of our conference theme is the idea of embracing uniqueness and fostering belonging in higher education. By prioritizing cultural innovation and community engagement, we aim to create a more vibrant, equitable, and resilient academic community. Through thought-provoking keynotes, meaningful dialogue, and networking opportunities, we seek to inspire and empower attendees to actively contribute to the advancement of higher education. 

Goals

Foster a deeper understanding of the importance of cultural innovation and community engagement in shaping the future of higher education.

Provide attendees with practical insights and strategies for advancing belonging, equity, and community initiatives on their campuses.

Facilitate meaningful connections and collaborations among attendees, speakers, and industry experts.
 

 

Inspire attendees to take action and contribute to building a more innovative, culturally rich, and forward-thinking academic landscape.

Promote a sense of unity and collaboration that transcends disciplines and institutions, fostering a stronger sense of community within the higher education sector.

 

A Special Thank You


KBOR: Council of Chief Academic Officers

KBOR: Council of Chief Diversity Officers

Tilford Conference Statewide Planning Committee

Tilford Conference On-Site Campus Teams & Volunteers

Questions?

Contact Tia Owens

Director of Operations, Wichita State University

tia.owens@wichita.edu