Building Accountability Into DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Professional Development: A Bicoastal Case Toward Achieving Racial Equity

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 3:05 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Perspectives on the Development of Faculty (Table 8)

Abstract

The role of accountability in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) professional development (PD) initiatives is vital to ensure measurable progress and commitment to fostering DEI competence in educational settings. Achieving racial equity outcomes in higher education requires knowledge, skills, and actions expressed by individuals on a continuum of competence. Best practices and frameworks featured demonstrate institutional progress in addressing the impact of racism and exclusionary practices on disproportionately affected students. Tracking six institutions (five in MA, one in CA) from 2023-2024 reveals a shift in staff, instructional staff, and leaders/managers towards intermediate or advanced DEI competencies. Self-narrative reports, pre and posttest surveys, and artifacts showcase increased DEI competence over time, validating the effectiveness of these initiatives. Accountability drives DEI progress.

Authors

• Lorri J. Santamaría, California Lutheran University

• April Lynch, Bristol Community College

• Stacey Kaminski, Bridgewater State University