Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
From inception, ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ’s mission has focused on making transformative educational experiences accessible to all local community members. This includes offering a broad array of instruction that includes short-term industry certifications, the Associate’s degree, personal enrichment classes, and more.
Beginning in 2020, the College has undertaken a comprehensive effort, commissioned by the President and led by members of the College Council, to engage the campus community in ongoing dialogue that promotes a welcoming and inclusive community for all faculty, staff, and students. This effort seeks to examine policies, procedures, and resources in order to identify and address potential barriers to success.
½ûÂþÌìÌà seeks to maintain and sustain constructive discussion that leads to action and institutional change.
Statement of Meaning
Diversity is understanding that each individual is unique among multiple dimensions, including but not limited to, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, abilities, and beliefs. Diversity encompasses the multitude of ways in which we experience and navigate the world.
Equity is the distribution of services and resources to ensure equal opportunity. It is the result of the ongoing process of creating an environment where each individual has the access and means needed to be successful.
Inclusion is the practice of respecting and welcoming all people as a part of the ½ûÂþÌìÌà community. An inclusive environment recognizes the inherent worth and dignity of each individual.
From the Diversity Committee
We embrace a commitment to the removal of barriers that inhibit success. We recognize the need to listen to the students, employees, and the community when inequities are pointed out, even if it makes us uncomfortable, and opportunities to enhance our own growth as individuals and an institution.
By valuing individuals and groups free from prejudice and by fostering a climate where equity and mutual respect are intrinsic, we will create a success-oriented, cooperative, and caring community that draws intellectual strength and produces innovative solutions from the energy of its people.
This awareness of equity requires the understanding that we are not all starting from the same place. It is enhanced by acknowledging a person’s individual challenges, and also their unique strengths. It is does not mean simplifying work to promote success, rather upholding standards and empowering people to meet them.
We strive to set an example in the region by being an inclusive institution, demonstrated by the treatment of our employees and our students.
In order to produce lasting change, we must intentionally set goals and targets that will bring about these outcomes.