Texas Knight at the Round Table
Dr. Jane Konditi, Northwood University's Texas Campus academic dean, was selected as one of about 35 people worldwide to participate in the Oxford University Round Table this summer.
Dr. Jane Konditi, a native of Kenya, traveled to Oxford, England July 12-17 to present "Governmental and Societal Responsibility in Gender Equality: Theory or Practice?" Dr. Konditi zeroed in on why women do what they do vocationally, the influences that nudge them toward particular careers in common fields such as education and nursing, and the wage disparity between men and women. Dr. Konditi explored what has been done, what's being done, and what should be done to change the assumption that women are inherently less able or willing to pursue careers in male-dominated fields, such as engineering.
"For me, it's an honor," Dr. Konditi said of the appointment to the Round Table. "I didn't expect it."
Dr. Konditi presented for about 25 minutes during the conference that included other scholars from places such as the United Kingdom, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Dr. Konditi illustrated her points with specific examples of initiatives that are enabling women to excel in the workplace, such as the first bill President Barack Obama signed into law aiming to end pay discrimination.
Dr. Konditi has always been fascinated-and driven-by issues concerning women and children, she said. She's not asking for affirmative action for women. She simply wants a level playing field.
"This is about equality," Dr. Konditi said. "Sometimes men are not treated fairly. It goes both ways."
Moreover, she researched the histories of Rwanda and Afghanistan, among other countries, and found Afghanistan's situation for gender equality is deteriorating - despite legislative efforts by the government to improve it. In Rwanda, however, 30 percent of elected representatives are required to be women - though that number is, in reality, 49 percent. The world average is 15.1 percent.
"It felt really fulfilling and enriching. I had such a wonderful, scholarly experience. The splendor and majesty of the old City of Oxford - particularly the visits to historic buildings from the 1200s that withstood wars and natural disasters-left all of us awestruck. I will cherish the scenes of the old churches, Christ Church, and the historic Union where a number of public policies have been debated by world leaders during other Roundtables," Dr. Konditi said. "It made me realize how much I can contribute - and I have contributed - to a cause that's near and dear to my heart."
Shenette McCandless, coordinator for the Oxford Round Table, said invitations were sent to select people throughout the world. They are identified through various screening processes: by nomination from previous participants in the Round Table; recommendations to the Round Table advisors who also are actively involved in higher education and public school leadership; published articles and research interest of professors; from recognized presentations and awards of state and national organizations; and by invitations to individuals in successful universities, organizations, or school districts.
"This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It was good for the University, and it was good for me," she said. "I viewed myself not as an individual, but as a representative of Northwood University. It was a real honor."
Lauren D'Avolio
