Commission on Mercy Culture
Salve Regina University's Commission on Mercy Culture highlights a campus-wide commitment to promoting our mission by turning empathy into action. Dedicated to uplifting the voices of all community members, the commission responds to individuals' needs by actively listening and seeking solutions that foster inclusivity.
Through purposeful, responsive and consistent action, the commission creates space to actively and intentionally listen to the needs and voiced concerns of all members of the campus community and provide one another with support.
The commission also develops action steps and measurable results to advance Salve toward a fulfillment of our mission, which encourages the campus community to work for a world that is harmonious, just and merciful.
Mercy Summit
The annual Mercy Summit is a signature event for the campus community. Held each year during the spring semester, the summit provides the opportunity for students, faculty and staff to come together for a day dedicated to dialogue, learning and action around issues of justice, equity and inclusion.
Listening Hours
As part of Salve's commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming campus community, members of the Commission on Mercy Culture are available to speak with any student, faculty or staff member who has concerns regarding issues of equity and belonging on campus that do not already have assigned procedures and protocols.
Commission Members
- Dr. Tara Brooke Watkins (she/her), commission chair and assistant professor of music, theatre and dance
- Marsara Dunbar '27 (she/her), student
- Dr. Victoria Gonzalez (she/her), assistant professor cultural, environmental and global studies
- Dr. Hyoyeun Jun (she/her), assistant professor of English, communications and media
- Morendah Lesperance '26 (she/her), student
- Dr. James Ludes (he/him), vice president for strategic initiatives
- James Mournighan (he/him), director of residence life
- Dr. Sami Nassim (he/him), assistant vice president for belonging and intercultural development
- Michael Pimental (he/him), chief of staff
Intercultural Competence Development
The intercultural competence development program offers professional development and leadership opportunities that allow students, faculty and staff to deepen their cultural understanding and communication.
