People You Should Know – Leslie Stone

This is the fourth post in our “People You Should Know” series highlighting local leaders who exemplify values of community and collaboration. Meet Leslie Stone, the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Missouri Western State University (MWSU), who also recently gave a powerful performance as the lead character Charlotte in the production Walk on Water.

AV: Let’s start with you – how long have you been in St. Joseph and what are your current roles in the community?

Leslie: I’ve called St. Joseph home since 1989 when I began my college career here. Except for a brief two-year stint in Kansas City, I’ve been a part of this community ever since. 

I am an active member of the local NAACP chapter, and I also participate in the Interfaith Alliance for Immigrants, and the Human Rights Commission. Additionally, I serve on the Board of Directors at InterServ.

AV: Tell us more about your work at MWSU – how you got involved in the field of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and how you interact in that role both with the community at MWSU and the broader community in St. Joseph.  

Leslie: My involvement in DEI began with a deep-seated passion for social justice and community engagement. However, it wasn’t until after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. I witnessed injustice and racial tension and the impact it had on our own community. So, in 2021, I seized the opportunity to be the Social Justice and Outreach Director at YWCA St. Joseph.  My passion grew for fostering inclusive environments and promoting equity. My role at MWSU allows me to live out these values.

In  February 2023, I joined the MWSU community, and my commitment to DEI grew through various initiatives and collaborations. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with students, faculty, and staff to cultivate a culture of inclusivity, respect, and empathy.

As the Director of Diversity and Inclusion, my role involves:

1. Building relationships: I engage with students, employees, and community members to listen to their concerns, provide support, and facilitate connections.
2. Education and training: I develop and deliver programs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
3. Campus Collaboration: I collaborate with campus stakeholders to promote equity and inclusivity.
4. Community outreach: I partner with local organizations, such as the NAACP, Interfaith Alliance, and InterServ, to bridge campus and community initiatives.

The values of the Diversity & Inclusion office guide my work:

• Fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and empathy;
• Empowering marginalized voices; and
• Cultivating a sense of belonging for all.

In the broader St. Joseph community, I interact through:

• Collaborations with local organizations.
• Participation in community events and initiatives.
• Service on boards and committees (e.g., InterServ, NAACP)

AV: The values you just mentioned align well with those of All Voices St. Joe. Can you tell us more about some of the projects you are working on?

Leslie: I am excited for our upcoming diversity celebrations!

First, we hosted the Hispanic Heritage Banquet on October 2, an unforgettable night of Latin culture, music, and community.

In the spring semester, I eagerly anticipate:

• The annual Drum Major for Justice Award Banquet in January, honoring champions of social justice;
• Black History Month, featuring renowned guest speaker J. Todd; and
• The annual Women’s History Banquet celebrating women’s achievements and empowerment.

Additionally, I’m hopeful that Campus Pride will bring back the popular Drag Show, providing entertainment and raising awareness in support of our LGBTQ+ students. Other awareness opportunities will complement this event, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment.

These events showcase our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I’m proud to be part of an academic community that values and celebrates our differences.

AV: You recently played the lead in Walk on Water which was a powerful community event, with both nights sold out.  Can you share some of your thoughts on that experience?

Leslie: Playing the lead role of Charlotte in ‘Walk on Water’ was a profoundly transformative experience. Portraying a slave from St. Joseph who dared to escape to freedom with her family was both humbling and empowering.

I gained a deeper understanding of the resilience and courage of enslaved individuals and their families. The weight of their struggles, hopes, and fears touched me deeply.

The process of bringing Charlotte to life on stage was emotionally demanding yet incredibly rewarding. I had to tap into the complexity of her emotions, from the depths of despair to the heights of determination.

It was an honor to bring to life the true story of St. Joseph’s complex history, shedding light on the resilient lives of enslaved individuals and their families. By humanizing their experiences, we remember and acknowledge the past, fostering empathy and understanding.

AV: Any other thoughts you would like to share?  

Leslie: Building relationships within and between different communities is crucial for fostering inclusivity, understanding, and social change.

AV: Thank you Leslie. And we invite our readers to visit the Center’s webpage, where they can also RSVP for your events!