Diversity strategic plan
The School of Health & Human Sciences (SHHS) is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive community that encompasses a wide range of characteristics such as, but not limited to: race, ethnicity, gender, religious and philosophical beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, differential ability, national and geographic origin, marital and caregiver status, socioeconomic status or background, or status as a present or former member of the armed forces.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is integral to our institution’s overarching mission to serve its students and community as an exemplary center of education and scholarly inquiry. We believe that the greater inclusion of backgrounds and diversity in perspectives enriches the education our students receive and the climate in which they pursue it, and improves their ability to succeed as citizens, professionals, and leaders in an increasingly global society.
Additionally, attention to issues of diversity and inclusion supports and promotes the meaningful research, service, and community engagement pursued by the SHHS faculty and staff. The following goals, strategies and performance indicators are designed to drive action towards the overarching goal of a more diverse and inclusive climate for our students, faculty, and staff.
This strategic plan was developed over a period of 18 months in 2019–2020 by the inaugural SHHS diversity, equity, and inclusion committee (DEI). Committee members included faculty, staff, and student stakeholders from multiple graduate and undergraduate programs within SHHS. A 2019 school culture and climate survey, as well as general strategic planning priorities formulated within the newly created SHHS, formed the foundation for the strategic goals. A draft plan was presented to faculty and staff for input and approval in August of 2020. This DEI strategic plan was formatted according to Smith’s Diversity Framework, and it was finalized and adopted in late fall of 2020.