Ohio University Southern will host the Tri-State Conference on Diversity and Inclusion on Friday.

The one-day event is a collaborative effort among OUS (Ohio University), Marshall University School of Pharmacy, Ashland Community and Technical College, Shawnee State University, Mountwest Community and Technical College, Morehead State University-Ashland and Lindsey Wilson College.

Future conferences will be hosted by each partnering higher education institution involved.

The 2014 conference theme is “Reinventing Diversity” and brings together subject-matter experts and others who recognize the importance of achieving and embracing diversity throughout our communities and beyond, thereby providing relevant and actionable guidance on matters related to diversity.

“We are very excited about working with our area schools to bring awareness to issues regarding diversity and inclusion throughout our region,” Robert Pleasant, chair for the 2014 conference and director of enrollment and student services and coordinator of diversity and inclusion at OUS, said.

Through interactive workshops and discussions, this year’s conference attendees will obtain a working definition for diversity and inclusion, increase self-awareness about aspects within their own culture and further their level of understanding about ways in which inclusion practices influence and enhance the workplace and society.

The conference features a keynote address by Howard J. Ross, an author and nationally recognized expert on diversity, leadership and organizational transformation. Additionally, breakout sessions will be offered covering such topics as: Developing a More Conscious and Conscientious Campus and Work Community; Effective Mental Health Support for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Higher Education; Interfaith Dialogue; Culture and Rural Appalachian Women; and Reflections from a Black, Appalachian, Transgender Man.

The cost is $35 per person; $15 for secondary and post-secondary students. Registration fees include continental breakfast, keynote speaker, breakout sessions, lunch and a certificate of cultural competency. Continuing education units and university credit will also be offered to participants.

To register or for more information, visit www.tristatediversityandinclusion.com or call Pleasant at 740-533-4608. More information is also available at www.tristatediversityandinclusion.com/.