Diversity, equity and inclusion strategic planning underway

Vital work is underway in the development of Central Michigan University's five-year diversity, equity and inclusion strategic plan.

To gather community input and identify key goals and priorities, the  Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has scheduled listening sessions over the next couple of months for students, faculty and staff.

"The purpose of these sessions is to allow constituents the opportunity to share their personal experiences and to offer our team additional insight on the ways students, faculty and staff perceive and have come to understand Central Michigan University DEI efforts," said Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Shawna Patterson-Stephens.

The sessions will be conducted using a semi-structured focus group technique. For those not able to participate or not comfortable offering their thoughts in the presence of others, an online feedback form is available.

Listening sessions

Student sessions will be scheduled soon.

"Our diversity strategic plan will include initiatives aimed to ensure that Central Michigan University is inclusive, welcoming and supportive of all individuals," said President Bob Davies in his year-end report to the Board of Trustees in September.

Patterson-Stephens and her team also are currently meeting with CMU diversity committees and councils, alumni, and other stakeholders to identify key goals and priorities. She plans to share an update at the December Board of Trustees meeting.