WI LGBT Chamber of Commerce names MIAD Nonprofit Business of the Year

MIAD Equity + Inclusion Center’s resource bookshelf.

The Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce has named the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) Nonprofit Business of the Year as part of its 2024 Business Awards. The awards honor members for their contributions to build a more inclusive and diverse business community.

In a press release from the Chamber of Commerce, MIAD’s Equity + Inclusion Center was noted for exemplifying “a commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment both on campus and in the Milwaukee area. Through its Equity + Inclusion Center, MIAD supports LGBTQ+ students, with 60% of its student body identifying as part of the community and 25% as transgender or nonbinary.

“In the last year, MIAD has connected students with gender-affirming care [for physical and mental health needs], partnered with the MKE LGBT Community Center for monthly support groups, and promoted creative expression through zines, art and design, and a partnership with LGBT milWALKee’s House of History. With its new Fashion and Apparel Design major that explores inclusivity in fashion, MIAD continues to lead as a sanctuary for creativity and a beacon of support for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.”

“I was very excited to hear that we were named, especially because it was great to see our faculty recognized as part of that – that this is something college-wide,” says rhi anderson-martinez, executive director of equity + inclusion. “The recognition also speaks to our forward-facing mission and our big picture work to move people forward while providing individualized personal care.”

MIAD’s college’s Equity + Inclusion Center exists as a physical manifestation of the college’s core values. Focusing especially on inclusion and kindness, the center fosters an equitable and inclusive environment in which to teach, learn and create. It serves as a catalyst and resource for institutional change and as a haven from societal oppression – a space for students and community members to explore their identity in all its fluidity and expressions. The center’s significant activities and outreach span varied student, faculty and staff populations, including the 35% of MIAD students who are BIPOC. Students from Marquette University and Concordia University who cross register to take courses at MIAD also regularly participate in the center.

“The students we serve enter our shared community as creative professionals,” says MIAD President Jeff Morin, “bringing a much-needed diversity of perspectives to all of our creative industries and professions. We are honored to receive this award from the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce.”

Honorees will be celebrated at the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce’s 11th Annual Business Awards & Showcase, presented by BMO, October 23.