Student and Aspiring Educator Attends Racial and Social Justice Conference
Conference creates a safe space for minority educators
Bev Duran, a Bellevue University student who is enrolled in the University's Teacher Education program, recently attended the National Education Association (NEA) Racial and Social Justice Conference through the University's membership in the Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA). NSEA is a state affiliate of the NEA.
The conference took place in Washington D.C., Jan. 27-29 and brought together underrepresented educators and aspiring educators like Duran. Duran plans to pursue a career as a high school history teacher when she graduates in 2024.
At the conference, Duran networked with fellow educators and furthered her understanding of teaching in a diverse classroom. Duran said that when she arrived she was met by many other teachers of color and she was proud to see that representation.
“I felt a sense of belonging and pride when I attended the Racial and Social Justice conference,” said Duran. “The NSEA is very committed to uplifting the voices of marginalized teachers, parents and students.”
The NSEA was founded in 1867 and has been the most effective voice in the state for teachers, students and parents. Duran’s role within NSEA is to recruit other aspiring members to keep the support strong in the education field. The association represents 26,000 education professionals across the state and supports members through professional growth opportunities.
For more information about the NSEA, visit the association's website.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).