Here are some keys to the success of diversity initiatives and how the faculty seminar achieves them. Diversity and innovation are supported at the top of the organization . A key factor in any successful effort to change the environment is that it has support from key decision makers within the institution. The recommendation to create the Faculty Diversity Seminar came from a chancellor s-level advisory group and the support and resources for this effort have remained centered within the chancellor s office since the seminar s inception. Many participants have noted that support from the chancellor helps to legitimize their efforts within their departments and among their colleagues.
Diversity is consistent with the core values of the organization .
A critical factor in the long-term success of diversity is that it is not viewed as something extra or a secondary concern that the institution must address. The Faculty Diversity Seminar is closely linked to the overall value of teaching excellence at the University and our commitment to providing a meaningful experience for the lifelong development of our students. Diversity efforts are supported and owned by the people who do the work . Often, diversity efforts begin at the top of the organization, but lack the support of the rest of the organization to implement the plan for change. The faculty seminar was conceived by the faculty, is faculty designed, faculty owned and faculty operated.