Tag: Staff

Domestic Violence: Understanding, Healing, and Reclaiming Power

Content warning: discussions of domestic abuse and tactics

When people hear about survivors of narcissistic abuse or domestic violence, the immediate reaction is often judgment. “Why didn’t they leave sooner?” “Why didn’t they speak up?” These questions reflect a lack of understanding about the deeply complex trauma involved in these situations. Survivors often face skepticism, disbelief, and even blame, especially if they didn’t report the abuse right away. This response not only dismisses the survivor’s pain but also ignores the complex dynamics of trauma, manipulation, and psychological torment.

Wayne Gersie Appointed to U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Advisory Council

Portrait of Wayne Gersie smiling with his arms folded across his chest.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has appointed Wayne Gersie, Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, as a representative member on the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA or Academy) Advisory Council. The appointment is effective from May 3, 2023 for a term of two years.

On the Council, Gersie will represent the viewpoints of Michigan Tech in the area of diversity, equity, inclusion, and sense of belonging (DEIS). In this role, he will provide valuable insights and perspectives to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to help further the USMMA’s mission.

“I am honored to be called to serve by the Secretary to provide insight on the positive educational and innovation impacts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and sense of belonging initiatives,” said Gersie. “This appointment is recognition of the DEIS work we’re doing here at Michigan Tech.”

Domestic Violence: Changing the Narrative

Michigan Tech's Husky Statue wearing a purple ribbon around its neck.

For more than 30 years, we have marked our observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) with purple ribbons, awareness campaigns, and participation in local and national events. At Michigan Tech, purple ribbons around campus draw attention and awareness to the issues of domestic violence, domestic abuse, intimate partner violence, and relationship abuse. Student organizations also host events to raise awareness.

Meet Wayne Gersie,Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion

Play Meet MTU's Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion video
Preview image for Meet MTU's Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion video

Meet MTU's Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion


Hi everyone, my name is Wayne Gersie. I’m the new Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion here at Michigan Technological University. I’m excited to be a part of your community, and I’m looking forward to having conversations with you about diversity, equity, inclusion and sense of belonging. Since I have been here, I have had the opportunity to move around and interact with many of you and get a really great sense of what it’s like to be a member of this community. Your stories have made me better understand what it means to live and work at Michigan Tech. You shared what you love about the community—but also some of the challenges you’ve experienced in your time here. I know we have work to do.