Appalachian State University's Office of Diversity has released its inaugural report, summarizing the university's diversity, equity and inclusion work over the past academic year, including the status of recommendations made by multiple advisory groups and boards.
The 2021-2022 Annual Report is available on the Office of Diversity website and arrives at a critical juncture for diversity, equity and inclusion work on App State’s campus, according to Chief Diversity Officer and Finance Professor Jamie Parson.
"We are working to implement recommendations from the UNC System Racial Equity Task Force, Black at App State and various working groups," said Parson in an email to community members. "App State continues to prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. And we cannot negate the fierce impact that the dual pandemics of the last few years have had on our campus community."
Dr. Parson said the work includes support of the following priorities:
- Ensure the campus is a welcome, safe, diverse and inclusive place.
- Strengthen our recruitment, enrollment and outcome efforts for students.
- Strengthen our recruitment, retention and promotion opportunities for faculty and staff.
Dr. Parson previously chaired the Walker College of Business Inclusive Excellence (IE) team, which is composed of business faculty, staff and students who advise college administrators on diversity and inclusiveness opportunities and needs within the college. The IE Team also looks at comparative and aspirational programs to benchmark seeking to make the college a leader at the university in pursuing inclusive excellence. Learn more at business.appstate.edu/diversity.
Appalachian State University is committed to developing and allocating resources to the fundamental task of creating a diverse campus culture. We value diversity as the expression of human similarities and differences, as well as the importance of a living and learning environment conducive to knowledge, respect, acceptance, understanding and global awareness. Learn more about the Office of Diversity at diversity.appstate.edu.
App State's diversity, equity and inclusion work detailed in 2021-22 annual report
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