Editor’s note: The College of Education has gone through some structural and operational changes over the past few years, as a direct result of the Core Council recommendations and the response to those recommendations by the college. The complete Model for Student Recruitment and Retention and the Development and Coordination of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies can be found at this link. In an effort to more effectively communicate the details of that model, pieces of it will be shared regularly through Connections. As always, your feedback is welcomed at edrelations@psu.edu.
Creating a culturally rich and diverse learning environment is a primary goal for the University as well as the College of Education. In an effort to promote diversity across the college, the Diversity and Community Enhancement Committee (DCEC) was formed to address specific issues related to diversity within the college.
Aligned with goals set forth in the college’s strategic plan, DCEC annually identifies initiatives that are addressed and supported throughout each academic year. Last year, the group sponsored multiple workshops geared toward helping students, faculty and staff navigate tough issues related to diversity that they might experience in classrooms, on campus or in every day interactions.
“Each year, DCEC sets an agenda around diversity-related issues and develops initiatives to address those issues,” said Kim Powell, chair of DCEC and associate professor of education and art education. “Last year we held a series of workshops titled Difficult Conversations where we contracted a clinical psychotherapist to acknowledge the emotional landscape of teaching and learning around diversity related issues, and to share and develop strategies for how we might engage in meaningful practice."
Previous themes from past years include LGBTQ Issues in Education, American Indian Issues in Education, Connections, Disability as Diversity and Exploring Linguistic Delivery.
During 2015-16, DCEC plans to move forward with the creation of a certificate program in leadership and diversity for both undergraduate and graduate students, an initiative that was introduced last year. Other initiatives include continuing workshops that encourage open dialogue about diversity-related issues experienced by students, faculty and staff, and establishing an online diversity resource library for the college community.
DCEC members are comprised of undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and staff. Members have the opportunity to serve on working subcommittees that focus on different diversity-related initiatives. Individuals interested in becoming a member of DCEC should contact Kim Powell at kap17@psu.edu.