January 26, 2005 - Today's Other News Items

Diversity Sessions Set For Jan. 18, 26

A series of "conversations" to solicit input and suggestions from the UO community on ways to enhance diversity on campus continue this month. The sessions take place 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 18, and 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 26, in the Erb Memorial Union (EMU) Walnut Room, 1222 E. 13th Ave.

The town-hall-style sessions will consist of a presentation on the UO's proposed five-year diversity plan and feedback will be solicited from attendees. Hosted by the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity, the gatherings are open to faculty and staff members, graduate teaching fellows, students and interested members of the community. Similar meetings took place in November and December.

"Everyone is invited to participate," says Gregory J. Vincent, vice provost for Institutional Equity and Diversity. "This is a totally inclusive effort and we are involving all levels of the campus community."

The five key areas of the diversity action plan for which Vincent seeks input are:

· Developing cultural competence;

· Building a critical mass;

· Filling and expanding the diversity pipeline;

· Strengthening internal and external community links; and

· Developing and reinforcing the diversity infrastructure.

Those who cannot attend the meetings but would like to offer input are welcome to e-mail their ideas and suggestions to vpdivers@uoregon.edu.