International students enrolled in the program contribute to the diversity learning environment on the Ellensburg campus. Diversity is an integral component of many Continuing Education courses. Nancy Howard, Director of Affirmative Action, stressed the importance of diversity and reviewed changing dynamics in the general populace which are reflected in student body composition. The average student is older and over half are female. The purpose of affirmative action is to evaluate the workforce and set employment goals to ensure the workforce reflects population availability.
Federal law prohibits discrimination in institutions of higher education.
The opportunity to succeed with appropriate accommodation is the focus of these legal protections. Ethnicity and disability statistics for CWU students were reviewed. Diversity of administrative exempt personnel and faculty has increased. The university has a strong diversity foundation. It was suggested that a policy statement be developed to guide diversification efforts.