100 Flags Represent the Diverse Origins of DCC’s Faculty, Staff and Students
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — NOV. 22, 2024 — Dutchess Community College proudly unveiled its new International Flag Display on Nov. 15, celebrating the rich cultural diversity of its faculty, staff and student body. This vibrant addition to the main campus highlights DCC’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) by offering a visible, lasting symbol of the global perspectives and cultures that enrich the College community.
The exhibit in the lobby outside the James and Betty Hall Theatre drew more than 150 attendees, including members of the Dutchess County Legislature and DCC leadership, faculty, staff and students. A Certificate of Recognition marking the occasion was presented by the Office of Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino for DCC’s commitment to maintaining a diverse campus culture that benefits students, staff and other members of the community.
Dr. Melissa Carlo, DCC’s interim chief diversity officer, led the ceremony and shared the story behind the project, which began in early 2023 as a collaborative cross-College effort spearheaded by the President’s Diversity Council. “These United Nations-recognized flags reflect our diverse campus community,” she remarked. “This display will continue to grow.”
The display currently features 100 flags representing the countries of origin of DCC’s faculty, staff and students, with plans to expand the collection each summer as new members join the College community. Two original student photographs complement the display—"Three Arches” by Bridget Donnelly, depicting a view from the Poughkeepsie Train Station, and “Little Italy,” a scene from downtown Poughkeepsie, by Brianna DiLoreto. The pieces, selected and arranged by Associate Professor of Art Margaret Craig (’99), capture a sense of place and rootedness, emphasizing the College’s location in Poughkeepsie and its connection to the global community.
“These colorful emblems offer a warm welcome to everyone who comes to our campus—community members attending events, faculty and staff, current and prospective students and their families, all who worked and studied at DCC,” said DCC President Dr. Peter Grant Jordan. “The flags symbolize unity, resilience and the shared dreams of individuals and entire families who see America as the land of opportunity and aspire to achieve the American Dream through the pursuit of higher education.”
Jamaal Duarte, a DCC Diversity Council student representative, also spoke at the event, voicing what the display means for DCC students. “Instead of honing in on the differences that define our identities, this space allows us to celebrate what makes us unique, elevating all of our campus community, regardless of cultural background,” he shared.
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