The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force (DEI) was established by NCC in the spring of 2019. The organization is a combination of faculty, staff and students. President Hammond hand-picked each member of the team.
One thing the Task Force utilizes is working groups. These groups help lighten the load for the team with research and development.
Since its creation, the DEI Task Force aids in identifying the needs of campus community members who are underrepresented. The DEI strives to create permanent cultural changes.
Last month, the DEI launched its official efforts website. It features resources and project links, as well as campus news, stories and communications.
According to the website, “Recognition of the need for change is only the first step. The commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is ongoing, and this is how we are devoting ourselves to this cause — both now and in the future.”
Campus Climate Survey
The organization’s most recent project is a campus climate survey. Students received an email asking to answer questions based on experiences they may have had on campus. The survey expires at the end of the month, so the College encourages students to complete it if they haven’t already.
“We will use the results of this survey to inform and improve support, policies and practices at North Central College,” said DEI Task Force Co-Chair Dorothy Pleas in an email to students.
The plan is to take these results and analyze the data with research groups. The DEI Task Force will also engage with focus groups in order to get certain pockets of the population.
“A lot of the work that this task force does is going to look invisible to students,” said DEI Task Force Co-Chair Stephen Caliendo. He hopes that some of the interior work will have a lasting effect on the campus.
Looking Ahead
Caliendo emphasized the fact that even the task force has much to learn. The group continues training to learn and improve. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the group didn’t slow down in the work they’ve accomplished so far. Meetings, forums and events have been conducted virtually.
Students can inquire about potentially joining the task force as well.
“Initial membership for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force was determined in collaboration with faculty speaker, Dr. Lou Corsino; the faculty Steering Committee; leadership of the Black Student Association; the Office of Student Affairs; and the Cabinet,” said Hammond in a document to the DEI Task Force. Appointments are made by Hammond by request of the task force.
