VP for Minority Affairs
Shares Passion for Diversity with FM

by Karen Crowder

On January 29, the staff of Financial Management was given the opportunity to hear Dr. Rusty Barcelo, Vice President for Minority Affairs speak about her life, her journey to UW and her passion for developing opportunities for people to work together around the issues of diversity. She is a real force of nature.

She spoke of her early days growing up in a Mexican American family and how she was surprised to find that some people (like her first grade teacher) thought her name was Nancy. She had been dubbed Rusty early on because of her red hair, and that was the name she knew was hers. Though her hair is no longer red, one still feels the spark from the person who had to reeducate her teacher about what her name really was.

Through the years of following a military father around the world, and through the years of being the only Chicana at her college, Rusty has had first hand knowledge of being immersed in other cultures. Her experiences have given her a respect for human potential and the possibilities of people working together in a respectful and appreciative way. Her efforts at the UW, so far, have certainly shown her drive to create a place where all people can flourish. Since she came to campus shortly after I-200 was passed, eliminating Affirmative Action in Washington State, she has constantly looked for ways to encourage underrepresented people to come to school at UW and is working hard to create an environment that is welcoming and rich with opportunities for all people. Her definition of diversity is very broad and inclusive, and she is very open to input and ideas.

The talk was very well received by members of the Financial Management community. We were delighted to listen to and learn from such a strong, passionate leader. Thank you, Dr. Barcelo!