Most recent committee notes:
IOU Committee
6/4/08
Attendance: Joanie Weatherly, Rinda Johansen, Moria Golub, Hazel Martinez, Christine Riehl, Melissa McLeod, Candice Watkins, Greg Haman, Joanne Swenson, Margaret Frimoth
Photo Display Update:
Four photos and one interview have been completed. Several other students/community members were identified as possibilities for additional photos. Joanie will contact Bob about times he is available. LIT will be the contact location for photos and interviews (though photos can be taken in any number of locations, as appropriate).
GOAL: To have a display up by the time of the Fall In-Service.
Rinda passed out a checklist assessment that could be used for the community conversations about diversity. The committee would like to facilitate some type of regular conversation time next year. We continued with additional discussion about the need for a time and place to really talk about sensitive issues, such as racism and white privilege. It is and important step towards inclusivity.
We had a lengthy conversation about the ISLO assessment tool for graduating students. The IOU committee REALLY APPRECIATES the effort and discussion that created this measurement tool. We definitely support gathering this data this year. However, we did discuss some concerns:
Question #1. Students might find this question confusing because it doesn’t directly address the issues that we are attempting to gather.
Question #6. We suggest the language, "Have your experiences at CCC enhanced your awareness of your own unique identity, heritage, and background?"
We also discussed gathering demographic data for greater accountability, specifically in the areas of sexism, racism, classism, homophobia and religious intolerance. The reason for collecting demographic data is to be accountable to those on the downside of dominant culture. Without demographic information, it's hard to know, for instance, whether students of color have had "experiences that honor their unique identity, heritage and background". If only white students answer that question in the affirmative, then we know that we are not embracing diversity in ways that are the same for students of color. If a diverse student group answers in the affirmative, we have a more reliable way to rate our learning outcome.
If there are additions to this conversation that others want to include, please do so (I got so involved in the discussion, I forgot to take notes).
Margaret and Greg gave an update about the possibility of sending CCC staff/faculty to a training held on July 9th & 10th at the Museum of Tolerance in LA. The training is being made possible by a grant from Community Colleges Workforce Development (CCWD) and supplemented by participating colleges. Greg believes at least 3 representatives from CCC will join representatives from other (mostly rural) community colleges from around Oregon. A selection process is being discussed and committee members were encouraged to check their schedules and express their interest in attending.
The Bandit is expected to have information about the IOU Committee in it. Bob was working with Angela Fairless to accomplish this.
Margaret contacted Astoria Parks and Recreation about the Chinese Park, but they were unable to send someone to today’s meeting. We will follow-up with this in the Fall.
Margaret suggested creating a document that describes the accomplishments of the IOU Committee this year and provide this information to the Board. Others agreed that this was a good idea. Moria agreed to help edit the document along with Margaret. Further discussion occurred about the possibility of presenting our accomplishments during the Educational Program focus at a Board meeting. We will continue to follow-up on this possibility.
Hazel reminded the committee about Mexican Independence Day, and a celebration that is being planned for Sept. 20th. It will be the Hispanic Heritage Festival and will be held at the Fairgrounds. There will be many opportunities to volunteer and provide support for this event. Let Hazel know how YOU can help.
Moria reminded the group about Upward Bound Presentations that will be held on July 24th at the PAC. Go UB!
Good work, everyone! Thanks again and again for your interest, support and commitment to diversity. We will continue to work, individually and in small groups, on the Photo Display and Statement of Accomplishments throughout the summer. We will regroup in early the Fall.
Have a safe, relaxing and wonderful Summer. See you in the Fall!
Respectfully submitted,
Margaret Frimoth
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IOU Committee Meeting Notes
5/21/08
Attendance: Tommie Redwine, Melissa McLeod, Rinda Johansen, Candice Watkins, Debbie Kaspar, Joanie Weatherly,
Bob Wilson, Deac Guidi, Margaret Frimoth
Agenda Items:
Holocaust Speakers
War and Conscience
Photo Display
ISLO Conversation Update
Diversity Definition
The meeting began with a discussion about the ISLO and how important it is to have a definition of “diversity” in place before there is the ability to measure outcomes. This led to a greater discussion of definitions, including the reference made on the wiki. Margaret handed out a copy of the CUNY definition along with Candice’s comments and ideas. Much discussion ensued. The inclusion of specific language about power differences and advantages of dominant culture seemed important to the committee. While there was also discussion of the many areas of diversity, it was also noted that most discussions begin with racial differences. The need for more time for campus-wide discussion about diversity, especially during this political season. It was suggested that the IOU Committee facilitate monthly brown bag conversations about diversity this Fall. Margaret mentioned a training that PAT would be reviewing next week. It may support the idea of facilitated discussions as well as ideas about ISLO outcomes.
Bob Wilson reported that the War and Conscience Symposiums were well-received and have stimulated further conversation on campus and in the community. He also mentioned how emotionally exhausting it was. He is glad to have been part of the program and he’s invested in creating more “Veterans Voices” events, but right now, he really needs to concentrate on getting through the term. A round of applause to you, Bob!
Bob provided an update on the Photo Display. He has taken two photos already. He requested that Margaret set appointments for him, which she agreed to do. Other ideas for photos included: Jessica Johansen, Debbie Kaspar’s student, Wanda, Joemal, Mahalea. The group brainstormed interview questions to ask, such as:
Tell us about yourself
Tell us your most important accomplishment or goal
How would you identify yourself?
What does diversity mean to you?
How do you feel your diversity contributes to the college and community?
Are there any issues that you would like the IOU Community to know about?
There was discussion about the need for a waiver, and it was suggested that we contact Caitlin to learn what she uses when she takes photos. Margaret will follow-up with that.
Deac said that the Foundation needs to know an amount of funds requested before considering a grant. Much discussion about the nature of the grant. It was decided that if the grants were for large projects, that a $5,000 contribution would cover mats and nice framing. Since this is to be on display for the 50th Anniversary Celebration, that seemed reasonable.
Margaret and Bob will talk with Angela Fairless about an article in the Bandit about the Photo Display. They will also confirm coverage of the Holocaust Survivors talk.
Candice provided an update about the Holocaust speakers on May 28 from 12-1:30. There has been lots of positive feedback. Some concern about space limitations, but it was agreed by the committee that an event on campus was important. Candice has created a wiki for the Holocaust Bibliography. Candice will also work with Caitlin to develop a Press Release. She will also contact KMUN about possible streaming.
Margaret provided information about the Astoria Chinese Park. It was requested that we invite someone who is working on the Park to our next meeting so that we can discuss ways to be supportive. Margaret will contact Astoria Parks for a contact name.
As we prepare for the end of the school year, we discussed putting together a list of our goals and accomplishments. As we look toward to next year, we want to concentrate on:
Possible expansion of the Photo Display,
Facilitation of Diversity Conversations, and
Mexican Independence Day
Next meeting: Wednesday, June 4th, 2-3:00 in the BANQUET ROOM
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IOU Committee Meeting
May 7, 2004
Library Conference Room
Attendance: Joanne Swenson, Bob Wilson, Melissa McLeod, Rinda Johansen, Candice Watkins, Moria Golub, Deac Guidi, Margaret Frimoth
After introductions, the conversation turned to the Photo Exhibit. Bob has the support of David Meyers and Lucien Swerdloff in developing the photo display project. He estimates the cost of a roll of luster paper at $200. Also need to cover the cost of ink, mats and frames. Lots of discussion about black & white photos vs. color photos. Color can symbolically represent vibrancy, something we would like the issue of diversity to represent. Black and while photos could create a symbolic statement about diversity as more than skin color. Ultimately, we agreed to begin with black and white photos because it is more cost effective. We want to establish the project and move forward quickly. The photo display can unfold in many ways once it is in motion.
Bob has several possible photo subjects. Others were suggested. Bob will let Margaret know about photo shoot times and Margaret will email the group. Whoever is available will do the interview of the individual being photographed. Moria and Candice are willing to edit the interviews as statements to attach to the photos.
Discussion about “what is diversity?” Lots of suggestions to include language about “unequal distribution of power,” and ideas about “social justice.” However, there was not enough time to establish a clear discussion during the meeting. Discussion will continue on the wiki site. In addition, there was a suggestion about putting the Photo Display on-line. At this point, that seems like a great idea.
GOALS: Article about the Photo Display in the Bandit (deadline May 28)
Photos displayed for Fall In-service and 50th anniversary celebrations
Discussion about “what is diversity?” on wiki
Candice provided an update about the Holocaust Survivors who are speaking at CCC on May 28th from 12-1:30 in the Art Gallery. Lots of support about encouraging students to attend the event.
Bob reminded the group about the May 14 “War and Conscience” Event at the PAC and Coastal Theater. Another important event.
Joanie provided a set of questions that she plans to present to an ISLO Assessment Team. The goal is to begin, this year, to access how CCC is helping students achieve the outcome of “Appreciating Diversity.” There was much lively discussion. The proposed questions are:
1.Have your experiences at Clatsop CC helped you to be more aware of your own cultural identity/background?
2.Have your experiences at Clatsop CC helped you to be more aware of cultures which are different from your own?
3.Has the coursework you have completed at CCC offered you the opportunity to reflect on your own cultural identity and how your cultural background/identity is different from others’?
4.Have you witnessed or experienced discrimination as a CCC student?
5.Oppression is the unequal distribution on social, economic, and political power and resources. Have your experiences at CCC taught you to understand the concept of “oppression”?
6.Have your experiences at CCC enabled you to more effectively communicate with people who are different from you?
7. Have your experiences at CCC empowered you to address issues of discrimination?
Some concerns were expressed about question #5 which might seem a bit scary to some students. However, the IOU Committee decided that the questions were important, and it would be important to be able to document student responses. Therefore, the IOU Committee endorses the questions as presented by Joanie.
Discussion about Tommie Redwine’s correspondence about:
Summer Intercultural Institute, and
Possible funding for the IOU projects from the Foundation.
Information and links about the Summer Intercultural Institute will be on the wiki.
Deac agreed to write a statement requesting funds from the Foundation in support of the photo display, which can be on display as part of the college 50th year celebration.
Next Meeting Dates:
Wed., May 21st, 2-3:00
Wed., June 4th , 2-3:00
LOCATIONS TBA
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Great meeting last week. Here are my notes:
IOU Committee Meeting
4/16/08
In attendance: Deac Guidi, Joanie Weatherly, Cadice Watkins, Bob Wilson, Angela Fairless, Christine Riehl, Debbie Kaspar, Rinda Johansen, Margaret Frimoth
Margaret informed the group that both Roger Friesen and Stephen Schoonmaker approved the use of the name: IOU (Isms, Obias and You): Educate, Connect, Celebrate!
Margaret then introduced Bob Wilson who was referred to our committee by Lucien Swerdloff as a student who was interested in participating in the Photo Display project. Bob described his interest in the project and also his previous projects and experience. The group discussed more specifics about the project: utilize diverse sizes of photos, mats and frames as a symbolic recognition of diversity; ensuring that the photographs capture many diverse aspects of our students, staff & faculty, and larger community (not just racial differences). Other discussion focused on the need for materials (frames, glass, mats) and photographic film and paper. Budget was discussed. There may be grant support available through United Way or Teaching Tolerance, though the committee also emphasized the need for the committee to be part of the college budget, as well.
GOALS: Develop an article for the Bandit by May 28th, 2008
Photo Exhibit goes on display by Fall Inservice
Candice stated her interest in bringing Holocaust Survivors to our campus during Spring Term (editorial addition: Yom Hashoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day, is observed in Jewish communities around the world. The day is dedicated to remembering the victims of the Holocaust (the Shoah or "destruction" in Hebrew). It falls on the 27th day of Nissan which will be on Friday, May 2, 2008 and Tuesday, April 21, 2009). The group was supportive of this event. Candice has communicated with Carol Newman about ways to contact survivors. Discussion ensued about date & times, and the idea of a reception after the presentation.
GOAL: CCC Holocaust Remembrance Day, Wed. May 28 at noon in the Art Gallery
The Cinco de Mayo celebration on campus will be low-key this year because ASG is concentrating on a major event by the end of the school year. Still, the cafeteria has agreed to provide some Mexican choices on their menu and ASG & LIT will decorate the cafeteria. There is a possibility of including recorded music and providing information about the meaning of Cinco de Mayo during lunch.
Angela Fairless updated the committee about the upcoming Artists for Awareness event at the PAC on April 26th. This event supports the need for a way to discuss current politics, particularly the upcoming elections. Great work, Angela!
Joanie reminded the committee about the AAUW Candidate’s Forum also at the PAC on May 7th at 7:00pm.
Bob let the committee know about an event scheduled for May 14th from 12:00-2:00 at the Coaster Theater called “The Vietnam Experience.”
These announcements generated a great deal of enthusiasm about the various forms of diversity that the committee could support.
NEXT MEETING: Wednesday, May 7th from 2-3:00pm, T205
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Here are the notes from today's meeting. Happy Spring Break to all!
MF
“Diversity” Committee Mtg.
3/19/08
Attendance: Deac Guidi, Rinda Johansen, Joanne Swenson, Melissa McLeod, Tommie Redwine, Hazel Martinez, Joanie Weatherly, Margaret Frimoth
The meeting began with a review of agenda items. The first discussion revolved around clarifying the distinction between “diversity” as an issue of compliance and safe working conditions and “diversity” as a philosophical foundation of ideas and activities. Tommie suggested that the philosophical foundation was connected with the educational process. Others noted that “understanding diversity” was an educational outcome, and therefore wedded with education, learning and instruction. Rather than continue to focus on the two distinct differences, group discussion sought to rename our group so that the separate functions would become more apparent. Margaret suggested several First Nation words and phrases from the Chinook Language. This was credited as creative, but Christine was concerned that the words did not draw people into the topic because the words were not easily understood. This was a valid point to many, especially since the topic of “diversity” is often difficult to grasp. Other ideas included using the following words as part of the group’s name: Connections, Celebrations of Differences, Living Together, Unity, Not Them but Us, Act Up. Margaret suggested, “Beyond Isms and Obias” and several others discussed that title as grabbing attention. We also discussed the “Big 5 isms and obias as: Sexism, Racism, Classism, Homophobia, and Religious Intolerance (it used to be anti-Semitism but need to be expanded). This led to the suggestion of “Isms, Obias & Us” (IOU), and a discussion followed that supported that title. Because we wanted to show a clear educational focus in the title, a tag line was added: Educate, Connect, Celebrate. Therefore, the new, suggested title for this group is:
Isms, Obias & Us:
Educate, Connect, Celebrate!
Committee Members will review this with others on campus. Margaret will run it by Stephen and Roger to make sure they have no concerns about the name. If there are no concerns, we will confirm this as our new name at the next meeting.
It is our hope that clarification of this committee’s title and goals will add further administrative support to our budget request and the availability of a staff member to be given release time to coordinate on-going events.
Other Business:
Joanie reported on the March 7th Latino Women and Families Speaking Event. Although there was low attendance and the event was in competition with several other events, the main speaker, Dr. Marcela Mendoza, and the two local speakers were great. The audience seemed to appreciate the event and important information was shared with the community. The committee agreed that an annual event utilizing the Road Scholars Program, which is part of the University of Oregon's Center for the Study of Women in Society, could be coordinated around International Women’s History Day. Props go to Joanie and Percy for the success of this event!
An onslaught of other great ideas surfaced in the discussion about ideas for a May event and beyond. The committee will support the Artists for Awareness Day on Saturday, April 26th (Angela Fairless is coordinating this). There was discussion about supporting and expanding the ASG event celebrating Cinco de Mayo. The committee would like to display information about the meaning of Cinco de Mayo, provide other information about immigration, etc. so that the event includes an educational component to it. There is a possibility of a speaker from the Hispanic Council (Hazel will check into this). There was also discussion about the difference between Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day (Sept. 16). Hazel stated that the Hispanic Council is planning a Mexican Independence Day event and the committee agreed to support this event.
Other ideas with follow-up tasks are as follows:
· Deac will talk with David Meyers about developing a Photo Project that celebrates our diverse community.
· Margaret and Rinda will talk with UB/ETS about coordinating an art project with elementary, middle and high school students, possibly to coincide with next year’s Senior Preview Day or another college visit day.
· Tommie will speak with Lucien about a class project to design a LOGO for us (we will confirm our name before it is actually developed).
· Joanie will speak with Julie Brown to find out whether she plans to present another Girls Day, and also to inform Julie about the AAUW/STEM grants that might be available.
· Joanne will check with ASG about the plans to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and how we might incorporate an educational focus during the event.
· Hazel will check with the Hispanic Council to request a speaker and/or information that can be shared during the Cinco de Mayo celebration.
· We will all ask students about and document what it means for them and appropriate ways they celebrate Cinco de Mayo (besides margaritas).
· Joanie will ask Carol Knutson about the possibility of requesting student essays about immigration as part of her WR122 class.
· Margaret will find more information about the Chinese Heritage Park
· Tommie will work on developing an Intercultural Marketing component to her business class for Winter, 09.
We also discussed the need to compile all the components already integrated into different classes and class material so that we (as a college) know what is being taught and in which classes. It was suggested that this could be one of the responsibilities of the coordinator position (to complete the task or delegate & track).
There was an unresolved discussion about the timeliness of the democratic presidential race and the possibility of a candidate forum about gender and racism in politics.
Many committee members would love to see more Immigration Forums at the PAC in the future.
Cultural Checklist
Joanie passed out a Cultural Checklist questionnaire that Stephen used in the past. We decided to individually review the checklist and discuss it at the next meeting.
Other Resources
Margaret passed out an article from the 2008 Journal About Women in Higher Education that defined the cross generations on college campuses today. She also passed out the Attitudes Towards Difference: Riddle Scale that was requested at the last meeting.
Copies of all materials reviewed at the meetings are available from Margaret.
Copies of all committee meeting notes are available on the diversity wiki.
NEXT MEETING DATE: Wednesday, April 16th, 2008 from 2-3:00pm.
Respectfully (though not eloquently) submitted,
Margaret Frimoth
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I'm adding the notes from yesterday's meeting. Thanks again for all the support and commitment to diversity on our campus! Please make note of our next meeting on Wed. March 19th from 2-3:00 in T205.
MF
Diversity Meeting Notes
3/5/08
Attendance: Candice Watkins, Deac Guidi, Debbie Kaspar, Percy Purcell, Joanie Weatherly, Rinda Johansen, Tommie Redwine, Joanne Swenson, Kirsten Fischer, Stephen Schoonmaker, Margaret Frimoth (if I missed anyone, please let me know)
Agenda
Welcome!
Updates
Budget/Funding Possibilities
PAT Recommendations
CCC Website (thanks to Candice for the wiki!)
Reprinted Diversity Discussion reading materials
Collected information from other colleges
Other
We began by passing out the reprinted copies of the Diversity Discussion reading materials, copies of compiled information from OSU, Lane CC and Chemeketa CC, and notes from the Diversity ISLO meeting (extra copies of these materials are available in the LIT room for anyone who needs them).
Discussion moved to the wiki site. It is very appreciated as a way to compile comments and keep communication flowing easily. Discussion revolved around whether or not to open up the site to more than committee members. If it was open for anyone to use, others could add to and/or delete from the site. While the committee wants greater involvement, particularly from other staff, faculty and students, there was concern about opening up the wiki while the committee is still in the process of forming and defining itself. General consensus was to wait before opening up the current wiki, but to strive for a way to use technology to gain input from others.
Much discussion was focused on the possible budget for the Diversity Committee and a Diversity Coordinator position. Stephen helped the committee define the request for staff release time. This was followed by a discussion about the amount of time needed to coordinate annual diversity activities. It was decided that a faculty/staff release time of at least 3 hrs/week, and preferably 6 hrs/wk, would be a reasonable initial budget request. Additional funds will be requested for activities and events. Committee members asked whether there was someone able to adjust their work/teaching responsibilities to fill the Coordinator position. There is a possibility for this occurring, but no final commitment was made, in part because the position had not been fully defined. We also wanted to open this discussion to those unable to attend today’s meeting. PLEASE NOTE:
REQUEST FOR ANY COMMITTEE MEMBER:
Please review your schedules and commitments, and contact Margaret or Stephen if you decide that you would be available to take on the duties of Diversity Coordinator, AND that your release time could be covered by adjunct staff/faculty. Budget requests need to be submitted by Tuesday, so we need to know ASAP.
Further discussion defined the preliminary duties and responsibilities of the Diversity Coordinator position:
Available 3-6 hrs/wk throughout the year (or contracted release time)
Coordinate Diversity Events throughout the year, such as:
- Determining possible speakers (local and others),
- Schedule events around speakers, including involvement with partner agencies, organizations, and schools to share knowledge and reduce costs,
- Produce a visual display (ie. photo display),
- Incorporate diversity information/discussions into staff/faculty in-service meetings and other college trainings,
- Inspire interdepartmental activities (Bandit, Rain Magazine, Photo Display, etc),
- Connect with Community Activities & Events (such as TPJCC, High Schools, Pacifica & Senior Projects, AmeriCorps, Arts Community, etc)
- Facilitate regularly scheduled Diversity Committee meetings
There was further discussion about “Bringing the World to Clatsop County” by selecting speakers and activities that support diversity. Deac acknowledged the availability of many local experts who could provide more affordable, excellent training information and experiences. The committee is resolved to press forward towards our goals and recommendations regardless of whether or not we receive full funding.
Tommie mentioned that she participated in a recent discussion that included the topic of “multi-generational” differences as part of a diversity conversation.
Stephen reminded the committee that student, Angela Fairless, is developing an April event that will focus on political expressions to “get out the vote.” The committee will support her work, and try for a May event before the end of the school year.
Joanie passed out flyers to the Friday evening (March 7) Latino Women and Families Speaking Event. Sadly, it’s in competition with Classified Bowling Night. We honor both events as important to the health of our community.
Next meeting will be in two weeks on Wednesday, March 19th, from 2-3:00 in T205.
Agenda Items include: Possibilities for the May event, Discussion of the Riddle Tolerance Scale, Review a Multi-Cultural Assessment
Thanks again to all who are interested in and committed to diversity, whether able to attend the meetings or not. Together, we are greater than the sum of our individuality.
Margaret Frimoth
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Here are the meeting notes from Wednesday. Let me know if you see changes or additions. Thanks!
MF
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Notes from the Diversity Committee Meeting
2/27/08
Present: Candice Watkins, Deac Guidi, Debbie Kaspar, Percy Purcell, Joanie Weatherly, Michelle Morfitt, Nancy DeHonores, Rinda Johansen, Tommie Redwine, Margaret Frimoth
Others interested but unable to attend: Abby Bandurraga, Amy Magnussen, Hazel Martinez, Roberta Basch, Joanne Swenson, Mathew Downes, Nicole Turek, Stephen Schoonmaker (if I missed anyone, please let me know so that I can include you on our mailing list)
We began the meeting by reviewing the most recent CCC diversity conversation history. Initial discussions about student learning outcomes resulted in the inclusion of "diversity" as an important outcome. Last Spring, Jennifer Whitman and Margaret Frimoth presented a Diversity Values Discussion to staff and faculty. A follow-up meeting continued the discussion and developed the desire for additional diversity discussions. A list of recommendations was created in hopes of gaining support from PAT (President’s Administrative Team). However, no other activities occurred until November, 2007 when staff and faculty met to discuss the Institutional Student Learning Outcomes. During the breakout session on the diversity ISLO, the discussion focused on the need to increase visibility and specific activities as a campus. Joanie Weatherly took the lead to continue conversations and action plans after the ISLO discussion. Another meeting was held to discuss the recommendations, but we wanted faculty input prior to making an official request to PAT. An announcement was made during a January, 2008 faculty meeting resulting in five faculty members expressing support of and interest in attending further diversity conversations. Our current meeting day and time was set so that interested faculty could attend. This history brought us to today’s meeting. Thanks to all who have participated and who are currently interested in moving forward. At this time we have 18 college employees interested in participating on this committee!
The recommendations previously discussed were:
- Create a Diversity Initiative Coordinator position, possibly filled by a faculty member, potentially rotational. The person filling this position would be freed from other responsibilities for the duration of the position. Goals for the position would include, but are not limited to:
Diversity Center on Campus
Overseeing Student Clubs and activities focused on Diversity
Coordinating Annual Diversity Day (see below)
- Institute an Annual Diversity Day for students, staff and faculty with seminar-like presentations and discussions. Potential date: Winter Term
- Use The Bandit to advertise the Annual Diversity Day activities
- The Fall In-Service will focus on Diversity using a trainer recommended by the Diversity Initiative Coordinator
- Request that RAIN magazine focus an issue on Diversity
- Include PTK and other student clubs as focus areas for diversity issues and activities
(In reviewing my notes from our ISLO meeting, I also found discussion about a sixth recommendation that wasn’t discussed at the 2/27/08 meeting. It was: Request that ASG reflect the diversity of our campus. At that meeting there was also discussion about ways to measure effective ISLOs. I include this information to document our progress).
After reviewing the previous recommendations, much discussion followed. Included in the discussion was the need for ethnic terminology and definitions, the need for diversity information on the college web page, and the desire for diversity activities to be on-going throughout the year rather than for a week or a day. Discussion then focused on establishing a Diversity Year that would include coordinated events, trainings, in-service meetings, speakers, and student activities such as essay and art contests. Other suggestions included having an international food fair or international dinner(s), creating a multi-cultural street fair, and working with the Native American community to develop a Pow Wow. Michelle Morfitt announced that Student Services will be hanging flags from all the different countries that represent our student population. We also discussed working with student clubs and photography classes to take black and white photos of various representations of diversity in our community and on our campus, then create a large format (portable?) photo display.
Finally, we discussed the need for funding to initiate some of these ideas. We discussed the possibility of establishing a diversity budget line item, and the possibility of securing some funding perhaps from funds originally budgeted for Arts and Ideas. The need to establish funding was seen as critical to any next steps. Amounts of funds were discussed, but no specific amount was suggested. However, two inspirational speakers were noted – Donna Beagle (generational poverty) cost approx. $2,000 for a half-day training, and Mohammad (racism and links with other oppression) cost approx. $4,000. The photographic project would add additional expenses, as would some of the events suggested.
The goals for our next meeting are:
- Secure budget line funding for the Diversity Committee
- Continue to develop recommendations for PAT
- Look immediately at the college website to increase diversity
- Reprint the Diversity Values Discussion Reading Materials
- Collect and distribute information from other Oregon colleges/universities regarding diversity mission statements, policies, coursework, standards, etc.
Next meeting: Wednesday, March 5th, 2-3:00 in T205
Thanks everyone!!!
Margaret Frimoth
Create your own educational wiki!