RBT Supports DEI Initiatives at MWCC

RBT Supports DEI Initiatives at MWCC

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The International Center for the Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion at Mount Wachusett Community College received a $5,000 donation from Rollstone Bank & Trust in a presentation held on December 21, 2021.

The International Center for the Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion was established at MWCC in 2021 with the mission to promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to improve the human condition for the whole community. The Center serves as a resource for students, faculty, staff, and the greater community on issues of equity through education, outreach, and advocacy.

“We are so grateful to have community members and organizations like Rollstone that believe in our mission,” stated Sharmese Gunn, Director of the Center. “This donation will help us to continue our programming through the year.”

Programs recently offered by the Center include lectures and guest speakers, film viewings, financial aid help in several languages, and a variety of other resources. The Center also encourages professors to integrate books by international authors into course plans, which not only promotes diversity, but also connects to the colleges’ study abroad program that is offered for students.

“The idea for the Center started in 2013 and has had the support of many people,” continued Gunn. “A special thank you is owed to all those who helped to launch the Center, especially Tracey Betts Sarefield, Melissa Bourque-Silva, Jasson Alvarado Gomez, Candace Shivers, Shaunti Phillips, David Thibault-Munoz, Irene Hernandez, Elmer Eubanks, and Dr. Laurie Occhipinti.”

“We are proud of our partnership with MWCC and the work of the Center to expand diversity and equity in our community,” said Amy Bonilla, Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) for Rollstone Bank & Trust. “More than ever, we need to not just say we are inclusive, we need to put action behind those words. The Center’s programming, which stretches into the community, truly demonstrates diversity and inclusion, and we’re thrilled to be a part of its success.”

At Rollstone Bank & Trust, giving back to the community is not just something we do—it’s who we are. We’re proud to support various local initiatives that strengthen the bonds of our neighborhoods. 

Our commitment to creating a meaningful impact drives everything we do, and we look forward to continuing this mission for years.

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