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
Why is there a statue of Stephen Foster in Cincinnati?
June 26, 2026
Even if you don't know American parlor composer Stephen Foster, you’ve probably heard his music. His mid-19th century folk songs, including “Camptown Races” and “Oh Susanna,” make appearances in pop culture to this day. There’s a statue of Foster overlooking the Ohio river in Alms Park that prompted WVXU's Bill Rinehart to feature him in his Cincinnati mysteries segment, OKI Wanna Know. WVXU turned to University of Cincinnati music history expert Kristy Swift for a peek into Foster’s life and impact in the region.
World Cup watch parties unite fans, communities
June 26, 2026
UC Assistant Professor Letisha Brown tells Spectrum News that watch parties for sporting events and entertainment are popular because people feed on others' excitement.
Drone-delivered groceries descending into Cincinnati
June 25, 2026
Walmart is bringing drone delivery to Cincinnati, as reported by 700WLW. Host Scott Sloan spoke with Michael Jones, associate professor of economics at the University of Cincinnati's Lindner College of Business, for a look at what it means for Cincinnati shoppers.