Diversity Statement
The Division of Student Affairs and Academic Support is committed to an equitable, diverse and inclusive community, one that understands differing ideas, values, perspectives and identities.
Doing so creates a stronger community, a greater understanding of differences and more inclusive decision making. Further, by learning about individual differences, relating shared experiences, advocating with care and celebrating our community, we live the values expressed in the Carolinian Creed and create a welcoming and caring environment for all to learn, work, live and visit.
We acknowledge that this work is ongoing and never-ending, and we dedicate ourselves to the continuous practice of improvement toward a better community.
Council Goals
- Create and maintain structures and resources that support diversity, equity and inclusion
(DEI) initiatives
- Assess systems and practices to determine a baseline related to DEI
- Minimize unnecessary duplication and increase collaboration and coordination
- Develop/review DEI unit goals that are in alignment with the division and university strategic plans
- Develop/review/monitor/report DEI metrics
- Incorporate DEI goals and metrics into departmental blueprints, strategic plans, and EPMS documents
- Identify initiatives to improve DEI efforts that support employees and students
- Develop a Student Affairs and Academic Support DEI knowledge bank to include:
- Existing division practices
- Best practices in student affairs
- Identify DEI education and training resources:
- Existing division education and training practices
- University education and training practices
- Higher ed and other industry best practices
- Consult with internal experts as appropriate
Initial Focus Areas
- Hiring and onboarding practices
- Student employment and leadership opportunities
- Employee and student participation in DEI training