Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Together, we can make a difference.
The Office of Academic Affairs is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment that respects, acknowledges and celebrates diversity and individual differences. All of us can continuously learn, grow and improve our understanding and actions to create such an environment.
Inclusion Ambassadors Program
The VPAA, with the support of the colleges and schools, is establishing the Inclusion Ambassadors Program. Inclusion Ambassadors will serve as a liaison between the Office of Academic Affairs and the unique equity and inclusion efforts of their college or division.
- Individuals can self-nominate or nominate others to serve as Inclusion Ambassadors (a call was distributed to deans and chairs on April 6, 2021).
- An initial three-day training for the Inclusion Ambassadors is scheduled for the first week of June 2021 (more details on the training will be forthcoming). Additionally, in collaboration with TTaDa, VPAA will provide continual trainings with an opportunity for individuals to earn digital badges in recognition of their learning.
- The activities of the position will vary throughout the year depending on unit needs, and faculty ambassador’s Page 2’s and/or staff position descriptions which will be negotiated with their supervisors.
- After engaging in June training, inclusion Ambassadors will start their work in Fall 2021 and will serve either two- or three-year terms.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement Working Group
In light of DEI Taskforce recommendations, a DEI statement working group composed of faculty, staff, and students are working to develop a statement for the campus to consider which will provide a foundational understanding of DEI work at UND.
About DEI Taskforce and Recommendation Report
Graduate Student Organizations
Graduate Student of Color Mentoring Program
The School of Graduate Studies, in consultation with VPAA, is working to create a Graduate Student of Color Mentoring Program. The purpose of the Graduate Student of Color Mentoring Program is to assist in the retention of graduate students of color from underserved communities at UND.
Additionally, the Graduate Students of Color Mentoring Program will provide these students with support, guidance, and mentorship from faculty of color at the University. This program will be geared towards first-year graduate and professional students of color at UND. More details to come.
Interested students should contact Chris Nelson.
Graduate and Professional School Students of Color Alliance & LGBTQ Graduate Students Alliance
In a collaboration with VPAA, the School of Graduate Studies is working to support the creation of two graduate student organizations for Students of Color and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender graduate and professional students.
Interested students should contact Chris Nelson.
Faculty of Color Association
VPAA and the School of Graduate Studies are working to together to support the creation of a Faculty of Color Association. This association may offer faculty the ability to connect with other faculty of color across campus as well as a place to gain support and assistance when needed. A faculty of color association can also provide a collective platform to speak on issues or concerns at UND. Currently we have10+ faculty members indicated an interest in forming this type of group for faculty.
Interested faculty should contact Tamba-Kuii Bailey.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Senate Committee
Elizabeth Legerski (University Senate Chair), with consultation from VPAA and VPSA, is working to establish a standing DEI Committee through the University Senate. Chair Legerski would like to establish this committee prior to the end of the spring semester 2021.