About Us

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity, Access, Engagement, and Inclusion Statement

To achieve and sustain excellence in education, the English department celebrates a diversity of cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Diversity is the range of human differences; it can include, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio鈥恊conomic background, educational or professional experiences, physical or mental abilities or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, veteran status, and political beliefs. Inclusion is the act of creating a welcoming environment in which individuals of all backgrounds are respected and where everyone can have a sense of belonging.

Diversity, Access, Engagement, and Inclusion Committee

Each year, the Department Chair will appoint at least four people to the Diversity, Access, Engagement & Inclusion Committee. Tenure鈥恖ine faculty and continuing instructors may serve on the committee, which should also include at least one member of staff. Representation from branch campuses is highly encouraged.

Diversity, Access, Engagement, and Inclusion Committee Charge

The committee will consult student, faculty, and staff regularly about diversity, access, engagement and inclusion and will develop guidelines to foster diverse and welcoming learning environments, where everyone can experience a sense of belonging and be offered resources that support success; will make reports and recommendations to the faculty and Chair about issues of diversity, access, engagement and inclusion, as appropriate; will encourage social engagement that promotes celebration and appreciation of our differences; and will seek to prepare our students for a diverse, inclusive and global workplace.