Campus Sustainability Plan 2020 Progress & Goals: Diversity & Inclusion

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In order to move toward a more sustainable campus environment, Lehigh must stand upon the three pillars of sustainability: environmental stewardship, economic prosperity, and social equity. This is achieved by embracing and enhancing diversity of culture among Lehigh faculty, staff, and students. We are fortunate to belong to a community committed to creating not only a sustainable environment, but also one that is diverse, healthy, and inclusive.

In this uncertain political climate, Lehigh has never been more committed to diversity and inclusion. From a formal message of cultural respect in response to President Trump’s  recent Executive Orders, to student-led rallies for inclusion, our commitment is woven into every level of our community. Our differences make us the Lehigh family we are.  

Among the many important goals laid out in the Campus Sustainability Plan 2020, few are more timely and relevant than this: “As we promote diversity and equity through educational programming, ensure quality of life standards for all campus members, and continue to be an integral part of the larger community-building process, we enrich Lehigh’s relationship with residents across the region and around the world. One way we do this is by making multiculturalism and diversity on campus a priority.”

There are currently many excitigng things happening on campus that continue to advance us toward this important goal:

  • -Lehigh’s first Vice President for Equity and Community, Dr. Donald Outing, was appointed to lead the institution on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion

  • -The Council for Equity and Community, which already provides generous grant opportunities for diversity initiatives across campus, is proposing a more formal organizational structure with both clarity and accountability

  • -Events that encourage open dialogue about tough diversity issues are scheduled almost every week of the semester (a sampling includes Courageous Conversations About ISLAM, Women and Children Refugees in a Rejectin World, and a presentation by Bill Mitchell "When Dating Hurts")

  • -The Council for Equity and Community has been holding discussions in the “Tackling Tough Topics Together” series, including topics such as identity and divided nations.

  • -The Office of International Students and Scholars offers students support and opportunities such as staff relocation, temporary housing, and transitional support

  • -Faculty, staff, and students have opportunities to increase their cultural competency and develop a shared vocabulary for open and honest conversation about diversity through the campus-wide VISIONS training
 
While it is true that we have many obstacles to navigate both within our institution and among the global community, let us also celebrate the advances we have made in recent years. As an institution, Lehigh continues to place issues of equality and fairness at the forefront of our work.  Our commitment to diversity and inclusion has never been stronger.  In order to continue to make advancements toward this important goal by 2020, it is critically important that each member of our community takes ownership of this goal, as well.