My commitment to JEDI principles, to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, is steadfast. Institutions of higher education have a responsibility to address issues of access and equity, social issues and social fairness, and a commitment to the well-being of all students on our campuses. I value working with individuals from all backgrounds, and firmly believe that we learn from our differences. This value stems from formative experiences in the 1960’s and 70’s that resulted in a personal view of the worth of the person, regardless of race or ethnicity, gender, faith, and place and socio-economic status – important factors for our students. Attending integrated primary and secondary schools, studying abroad in college, and doing professional international work with students and other faculty further solidified my commitment to the values of equity and inclusiveness in a diverse community.
Diversity is important, but, on its own it is simply a number. DIversity is not enough. We must provide access to higher education for all. However, diversification does not mean that our campus is inviting to all. We must provide an inclusive AND equitable environment for all students. Our campuses must engender a sense of belonging for all students, not just a subset. My experiences at large, primarily white institutions have ingrained this in me. The past several years have shown, clearly, that we have not always provided that environment of inclusivity and equity.
How do we create a sense of belonging for all students on our campuses? This is a question that deserves introspection. How do our policies affect different students? How do our spaces reflect the needs of all students? How do our curricula serve the entire student body? Do we live by our value statements? Or do we simply post values that sound good? Are administrative leaders engaged in continuous conversation with student leaders across all demographics? Have we built the relationships that matter when a crisis arises? We have to do more. It is not enough to open the door and then simply say “You are on your own, good luck.”
My development in the JEDI realm has been progressive and continuous. My values in this are were first formed during the late 1960s and evolve to this day. I am a work in progress. I am not fully formed. Never will be. We all carry our own biases and stereotypes. However, we must continue to check ourselves. We must strive to be anti-racist in our work and our lives. Taking it one step further, we must be anti-___ism (choose your ism). As a white male, I understand how privilege has helped to shape my career. And, as a white male academic, I understand my role and responsibility to assist others on their journey and my role as an ally and advocate.
During my time as Vice Chancellor and Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at NC State, I developed a reputation on campus, and with my colleagues nationally, as one who speaks out on these types of issues. Students knew that I cared about them and the issues that impacted them.
I welcome opportunities to discuss these issues and to learn from others. Contact me if you want to engage with me on these topics.