Campus Diversity and Climate Committee Meeting, December 1, 2009

With the conclusion of Plan 2008 and the campus community abuzz with talk about "inclusive excellence" (the framework for diversity and climate adopted by the UW, systemwide), the CDCC has begun to re-examine its purpose in relation to diversity initiatives. At this past meeting, the group discussed the question, "What does the university community need the CDCC to do and to be in order to accomplish the broad goal of inclusive excellence?" Several students from the ASM Diversity Committee were in attendance as guests, and they participated in the conversation as well.

Some key topics of the conversation included:

* the CDCC as a "the conscience" of the university around diversity and climate

* what sorts of incentives can be provided to enhance diversity initiatives across campus

* increasing student involvement in the committee

* broadening membership to include groups not normally brought in to diversity conversations

* creating clear plans for activating goals

* involving the chancellor and provost in future work of the committee

* being able to work simultaneously on programmatic action steps and big picture system thinking

* increased accountability structures

* incorporation of divisions and units

* translating ideas into action

This was just a brainstorming session, to be followed by some more intensive conversations throughout the spring about the charge of CDCC. Several times people noted the presence of students as a positive force, and people are reminded that the committee's meetings are open to the public and that guests are welcome.

The schedule for spring 2010 meetings is being revised, so any posted meeting times are subject to change.

--Frank Honts