Been There, Done That, Now What? Moving Beyond the Diversity Rhetoric

• In Event: 35.077 - MTCC Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: 35.077-4 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Professions

Abstract

Almost all institutions of higher education today have diversity offices, administrators, strategic plans, associated committees or task forces, and websites. Some colleges and universities have committed significant resources to cultivate a more diverse student body, faculty, and curricula, while others present a slick veneer of allegiance to the cause. Across institutions, institution types, and geographical areas, the result is that authentic inclusion for underrepresented populations, which would include not just recruitment, but also retention and success, remains an elusive goal.
This presentation explores how “diversity and inclusion” (D&I) as a guiding set of values for individuals and institutions is flawed and has fallen short of intended goals. Drawing on a Multicultural Organizational Development (MCOD) model of change, the author explains how compliance with the D&I rhetoric has not (and will not) advance broader goals for equity and excellence.
Instead, a justice-oriented approach to our work as educators will be encouraged. Using concrete examples from her research, the author will share individual- and institutional-level transformation strategies that promote academic justice. Participants will be challenged to adopt more justice-minded approaches to teaching, interacting with colleagues and students, and spearheading change at their institutions.

Author

• Kris De Welde, College of Charleston