SEHS Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The SEHS Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is dedicated to fostering a culture of justice, belonging, and empowerment within our school and community. Through thoughtful reflection on our beliefs, biases, and practices, we strive to create equitable opportunities and inclusive spaces for all. Our work includes conducting audits, hosting meaningful conversations, and building partnerships that drive real change. By promoting diverse voices and perspectives, we aim to ensure that every member of our community feels valued, heard, and supported.

Members: Greg Bartley (chair), Linda Doornbos, Beth Feiten, Danielle Ligocki, Cara Lougheed, Robert Martin, Phyllis Ness, Chaunda Scott, Audra Slocum, Monica Tignanelli, Rebecca Vannest

Meetings: Every other Wednesday from 9-10:30 a.m. in 488 Pawley Hall

What We're About

Mission: The SEHS Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion seeks to interrogate our beliefs, biases, and practices toward promoting justice in the School and community.

Vision: We envision a transformative culture that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion within our School and communities.

Definitions:

Diversity - Diversity is the range of human differences within groups. These differences include but are not limited to: race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, ability, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and/or language
Equity - Equity is acknowledging and responding to needs to ensure growth and success for all. Equity requires: fair and just policies and practices; necessary access, resources, and opportunities; and just outcomes for all
Inclusion - Inclusion is where the inherent worth and dignity of all people are valued. An inclusive university/school: promotes and sustains a sense of belonging; practices involvement and empowerment; and recognizes and respects the talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and lived experiences of its members.

What We Do

To gain a deeper understanding of the experiences, perspectives, and challenges faced by faculty, staff and students, SEHS partnered with Compass Consulting to conduct a diversity audit and analysis in 2023-24. This provided valuable insights that are shaping our efforts to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment.

Responding to the Audit
With the audit findings, we are actively working to enhance key areas such as:

Establishing clear definitions and a shared mission
Improving onboarding processes
Promoting transparency and effective communication
Strengthening advocacy efforts

Building Partnerships
SEHS is proud to be a co-sponsor of the Diverse Voices Conference, reinforcing our commitment to amplifying diverse perspectives and promoting meaningful dialogue.

Engaging Programming
We have developed a variety of programs within SEHS to encourage education, conversation and collaboration, including:

Lunch and Learn sessions that explore critical topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Community Panels featuring voices from parents, K-12 educators, and other key stakeholders
Compelling Conversations hosted in partnership with student organizations to engage in open and honest discussions
Presentations at School Assembly and Town Hall meetings to share progress and initiatives
Book Study Groups that bring faculty, staff, and students together for shared learning experiences

These initiatives are part of our ongoing commitment to creating a culture of inclusion, dialogue and continuous improvement within SEHS.

Other Important Resources