“I want people to realize it’s not simply about tolerance,” Johnson-Cheeseman says. “I certainly don’t want people to just ‘tolerate’ me or each other. The goal is real acceptance. In my position, I will start the process by building relationships, programs and projects. But first, we have to be friends.”

ARCC President Dr. Patrick M. Johns mirrors Johnson-Cheeseman perspective.

“As an organization of higher learning, Anoka-Ramsey Community College is committed to serving all students. We strive to create an environment in which everyone is not only respected but also welcomed and encouraged. Gary’s [Johnson-Cheeseman] professional and personal history makes him uniquely qualified to help ensure our campuses in Coon Rapids and Cambridge continue to develop an inviting culture.”

More about the new director
Johnson-Cheeseman holds an associate’s degree from St. Cloud Technical College, and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a master’s degree in Social Responsibility from St. Cloud State University (SCSU). Last year on fellowship, Johnson-Cheeseman completed his dissertation entitled, “What It Means to Be Anishaanabe,” and his doctor of education degree (Ed.D.) is currently pending from Saint Mary's University.

Professionally, Johnson-Cheeseman has worked at SCSU for several years, first as the Assistant Director of Admissions and then as faculty, teaching Anishaanabe language, culture and philosophy courses. He also started a radio program on the SCSU station that addresses American Indian issues, culture and music. The program has aired on Mondays from 5 - 7 p.m. for the past 14 years and is working toward national syndication.

Personally, Johnson-Cheeseman’s home life provides ample material for a study of diversity and multiculturalism. His family consists of his three biological children, his wife’s three biological children, a nephew, two adopted children of African-American heritage and one adopted child who is Native American. He and his wife also run a therapeutic foster group, taking care of up to 12 children with varying backgrounds.

Johnson-Cheeseman brings his cumulative knowledge to bear as he sets goals for his new position.

“I believe, as an education institution, we should be leaders in hope for change in terms of the acceptance of multiculturalism and diversity,” Johnson-Cheeseman says. “I am guided by a quote from Robert Kennedy. ‘Some men see things as they are and say why. I dream of things that never were and say why not.’”

A closer look at diversity and multiculturalism on ARCC campuses
The terms diversity and multiculturalism are in themselves diverse, but to understand them, simple definitions may be useful. By definition, diversity in regard to humans refers to anyone who diverges or is different from the majority, such as someone with a physical handicap or unique learning requirements. Multiculturalism, by definition, refers to the preservation of different cultures or cultural identities within a unified society. A multicultural society therefore accepts people who identify with various ethnic, religious or other cultural groups.

These two concepts converge in Johnson-Cheeseman role as an advocate for “all these underrepresented populations,” and in ARCC’s strategic plan. This planning allows ARCC to be proactive for the 9.6 percent of students of color and other diverse populations currently on both campuses. Planning also prepares ARCC for a future that, according to the State of Minnesota demographer, will include an increasingly diverse and multicultural population.

Officially, ARCC’s Diversity and Multicultural mission states:

The office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs is established to enhance involvement of underrepresented students on the Anoka-Ramsey Community College Campuses, and to promote a campus community that embraces, celebrates and creates inclusive learning environments. Programs and services encourage and promote the social and academic integration of underrepresented students by providing all students and the community the opportunity to explore cultural identity in a secure and inclusive environment.

For more information about upcoming ARCC multicultural initiatives and events, visit www.AnokaRamsey.edu.