As part of the college’s commitment to the university’s InclusiveVT initiative, leaders from around the college are taking a series of classes on diversity and inclusion with the ultimate goal of obtaining a Diversity Ally certificate.
“These classes are a great way for us to learn how to make our college more reflective of the society we serve and help recognize the unique viewpoints and skills we all bring to the university,” said Dean Alan Grant, who took part in one of the training sessions this month.
He was one of the many college leaders at the session, which was also attended by Roger Harris, head of the Department of Horticulture; Pete Schultz, director of the Hampton Roads AREC; Bobby Grisso, associate director of Virginia Cooperative Extension; Denny Gehrt, director of facilities, and others.
Associate deans, department heads, AREC directors, unit directors, associate directors, and others are all undergoing the training, which takes six classes to complete the certification. Leaders are then expected to share the class experience with their colleagues and engage in conversations about diversity and inclusion within their departments.
Everyone is encouraged to sign up for free courses on diversity and inclusion through the Diversity Development Institute.
The college has made a commitment to diversity and has four initiatives to enhance this mission, including leadership training and communication; civil rights training and compliance; inclusive teaching practices; and VCE Diversity and Inclusion fellows.
To learn more about the work the college’s Diversity Council is doing and how you can get involved, visit the group’s website.
