College Diversity Statement (Adopted April 2021)
The College of Communication and Information will build a collaborative environment for creativity, curiosity and excellence grounded in the core values of diversity, justice and equity. We are enriched by the diversity of cultures, perspectives and talents in our community. We thrive together when we work to provide an equitable and welcoming experience that respects and empowers the unique contributions and circumstances of students, faculty and staff from every race and ethnicity, nationality, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religion, citizenship status, age, veteran status, pregnancy and parenting status, and disability or health status. We are committed to ensuring every member of our College feels welcomed, well-served and included. Please join us.
The above statement speaks to who we are as a College and as a community. To carry out the mission to build a collaborative environment for creativity, curiosity and excellence grounded in the core values of diversity, justice and equity, this Diversity Plan was drafted as a guide to achieve four stated goals:
- Work to increase the diversity and retention of faculty/staff.
- Work to increase the diversity and retention of students.
- Empower all to build an inclusive community.
- Promote DEI goals across our core missions of teaching, research and service.
Note: All goals will be regularly assessed, as indicated in each goal in the document linked below.
This Diversity Plan was drafted by the College’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee in 2020-2021 in keeping with the College’s strategic plan and with UK’s central DEI efforts. Input was sought through a series of listening sessions and focus group discussions conducted with our community throughout 2020.
The implementation of this Diversity Plan involves all members of our College and campus communities. This is our shared responsibility. Support and tools necessary to achieve these goals comes from the Dean’s office, College leadership, the College’s Chief Diversity Officer and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.
The College’s DEI Committee will review the Diversity Plan with the Dean annually and offer amendments as needed to be responsive to events and conditions. This document linked below is meant to be adaptable while holding us accountable. Progress on the goals enumerated in this plan will be regularly assessed, with status updates offered yearly.