Gabrielle DeSombre, Junior, Yale Women’s Golf
"As someone who identifies as a P.O.C, a hapa (person of mixed race), an international, and an athlete on campus, I believe I that I have contributed to the discussion of diversity, equity and inclusion during my time so far at Yale.
I have been active within the AACC (Asian American Cultural Centre), CASA (Chinese American Student Association), KASY (Korean American Students at Yale), and OISS (Office of International Students & Scholars) communities on Yale’s campus. Being a person who navigates multiple interests and cultural identities, I understand the importance of a space where one can be their authentic self without fear of scrutiny or judgement from others. Spaces like cultural center or others, often act as “home bases” for students who want to connect with others of their like-mindedness.
I personally have a vested interest in promoting inclusive excellence on Yale’s campus. I served as the cultural chair for Yale’s Chinese American Student Association in 2017-18 to help promote wider-spread understanding of Chinese culture on campus. Moreover, I have been involved with the Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS), previously serving as an orientation counselor to help international first-year students feel better adjusted and included at Yale.
I want to help administer a change in mindset on our campus, and as Yale’s current SAAC president, I am proud that we are making strides with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for Yale athletes and beyond. We have started discussions with cultural houses, LGBTQ+ affinity groups, and religious groups, in an attempt to create a more inclusive, supportive and open-minded community for student athletes. Furthermore, Yale SAAC is focusing on community outreach initiatives to promote greater diversity and inclusion initiatives within the greater New Haven community."
The Ivy League is proud to showcase its diversity and inclusivity during the 2019 #NCAAInclusion Social Media Campaign, which will run from Tuesday, Oct. 22-Friday, Oct. 25, with different themes each day. The Ivy League will share quotes from select student-athletes about what they are doing on and off the field to make their campus a healthy and welcoming environment for everyone.