Diversity Task Force
Message from the Chair
As part of the University’s Strategic Planning process, the Diversity
Task Force is charged with the task of reviewing efforts and initiatives
that promote or address issues of diversity on campus. These initiatives
may include departments, academic programs or courses, faculty and staff
programs, student support programs, studies and data collection, outreach
programs to the community, etc. For the purposes of our work we are
defining diversity to include age, ability, ethnicity, gender identity,
race, religion, sex and sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and
geographic location. We are currently in the process of gathering information about existing campus initiatives that relate to issues of diversity in some way, including the demographics of our students, faculty and staff, as well as recruitment and retention efforts. We are also exploring model diversity programs at other institutions in the United States, national reports about diversity in higher education, and local/regional trends with regard to employer expectations around issues of diversity, demographics of K-12 students, etc. Based on the information we gather, the task force will develop a campus-wide plan and propose strategies for the greater integration of diversity with curricula.
The Diversity Task Force is composed of staff and faculty who represent a variety of academic and student services departments including Student Affairs, International Center, Diversity Services, etc.
As a higher education professional, I believe it is our obligation to ensure that students have a transformational experience during their time with us. As students gain knowledge in the classroom, they should simultaneously develop a better sense of self and their various skill sets, an understanding about the world around them, as well as the ability to embrace individuals with various social identities and to understand their experiences. If we do not challenge our students to achieve in these areas, we have failed to prepare them to relate effectively and contribute to the diverse world in which we live. Therefore, the development of a comprehensive plan that integrates diversity and social justice issues into the fabric of campus life is critical, and that is why the work of our task force is so important to me.
Michelle Rosynsky
Director, Women's Educational Center
Task Force Starting Ideas
- Review current campus diversity planning efforts, including the work fo the Diversity Council.
- Develop a campus-wide diversity statement and a plan, including measurable outcomes, goals, and areas of responsibility.
- Propose strategies for greater integration of diversity and cultural competency within curricula.
Diversity Task Force Roster
| Committee Member | Affiliation |
|---|---|
| Michelle Rosynsky, Chair | Women's Educational Center |
| Fred Svoboda, Liaison | English Department |
| Felipe Andrez | Student |
| Kathy Cornman | International Center |
| Lee Cruppenink | Nursing |
| Crystal Flynn | Exucational Opportunity Initiatives |
| Diane Fuselier-Thompson | Office of Extended Learning |
| Cheryl Godmar | School of Education |
| Fred Williams | School of Management |
| Johnny Young | Office of Student Life |