About Me
My Background
My name is Wesley E. Heath, but most people call me Wes. I was born in Dallas, Texas, but I was raised in the rural state of Indiana. There I attended Manchester University (MU) where I earned a dual Bachelors degree in Sociology and Psychology. For graduate school I attended Ball State University (BSU) and earned my Masters in Sociology. I currently live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana working full-time at Louisiana State University (LSU) as the Assistant Director of Multicultural Affairs. I am also a part-time PhD student at LSU pursuing my Doctorate in Higher Education Administration.
Traveling
When I'm not at work, I love to travel. Seeing new places, exploring cultures, and finding interesting getaways helps me develop personally and professionally. One of my favorite places in the world is France. I have studied the French language for over six years, and I have been to France three times. I've also been on a road trip through the UK, and I've visited the second smallest country in the world, Monaco!
Sociology and Higher Education
- Research. Sociology teaches good research practices. D&I requires constant research in order to stay up-to-date on the constantly changing diverse world. Not only is research an important tool for understanding new needs in the field, but it is also a powerful tool in assessing current programs and initiatives to see what is working and what needs improved.
- Advocacy. Sociology teaches compassion and understanding of diversity through theories like symbolic interaction, which understands meaning, values, and beliefs as attributes to unique cultures.
- Education. In order for a sociologist to convey the importance of diversity and inclusion to others, sociologists must be able to teach efficiently and effectively through programming, trainings, and in the classroom.