Spectrum News: University efforts more inclusion, diversity, honors first Black graduates
Littisha Bates reflects on UC's progress toward a more inclusive campus for all
Now that minorities make up 24 percent of the University of Cincinnati student body, a Spectrum News article attests to how UC pays tribute to minority students of the past, while providing current and future students a modern, more diverse and inclusive, academic experience.
The article focuses on a new memorial that recognizes the university's first Black graduates, including Alice May Easton, who was the first Black woman to graduate from UC.
“She (Easton) was around at a time when girls and women, especially Black women, were not seen as being academically competent,” says Littisha Bates, UC’s associate dean for inclusive excellence and community partnership.
UC campus 1920. Photo/UC archives
Bates said there’s still more work to do and she plans to be a part of it.
“If you see yourself as an advocate, if you see yourself as someone wanting to contribute to diversity, equity and inclusion, belonging and social justice, then you need to think about what can I do in my sphere of influence to be the change that I want to see,” said Bates.
Feature photo at top of installation, located on UC campus, honoring Alice Easton. Photo/UC Marketing + Creative/Andrew Higley.
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Pocket-sized population threat
May 18, 2026
The Financial Times took a deep dive into why populations around the world continue to be on the decline. The publication cited new University of Cincinnati research as part of the investigation that looks at the fall of fertility in the digital era.
Fire Awards spotlight innovation ecosystem at UC 1819 Innovation Hub
May 18, 2026
The Cincinnati Business Courier held its Fire Awards at UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub to highlight the region’s fast-growing startups and broader innovation community.
UC finds integrating substance use disorder treatment into clinic-based internal medicine expands access to care
May 18, 2026
A University of Cincinnati primary care teaching clinic integrates substance use disorder treatment into resident training, expanding access to addiction care and boosting physician confidence.