Welcome to the National Multicultural Diversity Institute (NMDI)
DR.Cleorah Scruggs-DeBose
When Dr. Cleorah Scruggs-DeBose began teaching elementary school in Flint, Michigan, in 1970, she quickly noticed the curriculum lacked diversity. She often spent her evenings researching diverse perspectives to incorporate into her lessons. "I didn't want [my students] to go through school without understanding their own culture and other cultures, and how we can live together in peace, not in pieces," says Scruggs-DeBose.
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By the early 1990s, she collaborated with the National Education Association (NEA) to create a multicultural curriculum guide and successfully advocated for the third Monday in October to be recognized as National Multicultural Diversity Day. Although she retired in 2000, her dedication to diversity education continued. In 1993, she founded the National Multicultural Diversity Day and Institute (NMDI), a volunteer-led nonprofit that promotes cultural awareness, understanding, and respect.
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NMDI organizes local concerts, festivals, workshops, and Multicultural Diversity Day forums. The organization also develops curricula for area schools, the local Boys & Girls Club, and places of worship, while providing educational scholarships to students in need. Reflecting on her work, Scruggs-DeBose notes, "A lot still needs to be done in the area of multicultural diversity, but we've made some gains." NMDI offers both in-person and virtual programs to continue its mission.
About Us
The National Multicultural Diversity Institute is born from the belief that inclusivity, equality, and the recognition of every individual's importance are foundational to a thriving community. Our mission is to ensure that everyone has a seat at the table and the opportunity to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We believe in the power of unity and the transformative impact of embracing diversity in all its forms.
At NMDI, we start our journey with immersive workshops and impactful displays designed to educate, inspire, and foster a deeper understanding of inclusivity. We host renowned speakers who share their insights and experiences, enriching our community and driving meaningful conversations.
Our success would not be possible without the unwavering support of our outstanding team. A special acknowledgment goes to my dedicated friend, Phyllis Clark, whose commitment and passion are integral to our mission. My husband, Paul Lawrence DeBose, provides invaluable support and partnership in this endeavor. Additionally, my mother who's in her mid 90's serves as our spiritual advisor, offering wisdom and guidance that strengthens our resolve.
The journey of creating and sustaining NMDI is both rewarding and challenging. We often find ourselves exhausted by the end of our events, a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Yet, the need for more resources—both financial and human—is ever-present. We continuously seek donations and volunteers to help us expand our reach and impact.
Join us in our mission to embrace diversity and equality. Together, we can create a world where everyone is valued and empowered to contribute. Your support and involvement are crucial as we strive to make this vision a reality.
Education
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Doctorate of Divinity Degree from Midwest Theological University
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Master of Arts Degree - Education Administration and Masters Thesis, Identification Of Beginning Teachers’ Problems - University of Akron
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Biblical Master's Diploma
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Adjunct Professor - University of Michigan Flint
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Instructor - Flint Community Schools
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Instructor GED - Mott Adult High School
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Instructor - Charles Harrison Mason Bible College
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Instructor - The Great Lakes First Jurisdiction, Merle Ruth Cranford Women's Training & License for Evangelist Missionaries
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Presented the Idea for NMDI's Caring and Sharing Community Outreach ministry - Originally called Christmas in October
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Presented the Idea to Bishop Owens for COGIC's Caring and Sharing Community Outreach industry Christmas in November
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Speaker, Workshop, and Presenter at International C.O.G.I.C. Holy Convocation: Bishop Ozro Thurston Jones, Sr. - Memorial Educational Training Institute for the Boaz Found Me Celebrating Singles Seminars
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Education Coordinator - Harris Memorial C.O.G.I.C.
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Professional Organizations - Life Membership
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National Education Association (NEA)
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Michigan Education Association (MEA)
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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Golden Life (AKA)
Mrs. Scruggs-DeBose is a dedicated, award-winning teacher with 30 years of experience at Flint Community School. Beyond teaching the required grade-level skills, she developed diverse classroom teaching units that enriched learning by incorporating our global community. She engaged diverse students, parents, and community members in field trips, musical dramatizations, panel discussions, debates, and other activities. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion led her to become a sought-after speaker and presenter at local, state, and national conferences. She has presented for Flint and surrounding school districts, the Michigan Education Association, the National Education Association, the Church of God in Christ, other religious denominations, and various community organizations.
Awards
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Business & Professions Women Educational Sojourner Truth Award
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National Education Association - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award
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Michigan Education Association Flint, MI - Multicultural Education and Excellence Education Award
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University of Akron-Alumni Award
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C.O.G.I.C. National Fine Arts Scholarship Department Award
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Flint Human Relations, Drum Major, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award
Volunteer with Us
We are always in need of passionate volunteers to support our events and initiatives. Your time and dedication can help us reach more people and create lasting change. Additionally, donations are vital to sustaining our programs and expanding our reach. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.
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Join us today and be a catalyst for positive change. Together, we can ensure that everyone has a seat at the table and the opportunity to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.
