Strategic Plan Priority 1 - Equity
Equity is not the same as equality. Equality ensures that every person is provided with the same thing. However, equity takes a deeper look and considers the history, systemic barriers and continuous changes within our society that make some less likely to achieve their goals in higher education.
Through an equity-minded lens, together we can create a college environment that is more inclusive, fair and just.
When we work to create a place that uplifts those who are most vulnerable, this in turn creates more opportunities for success for all. By making equity the keystone of this strategic plan, the College commits to valuing diversity, ensuring inclusion, fostering belonging and being a voice of social justice.
Goal 1
Evaluate diversity within our programs, campus locations and the counties that we serve.
Strategies:
- Understand the demographics of our counties and campuses and how these elements make each location unique. Intentionally disaggregate and analyze institutional data with the goal of identifying actionable next steps when needed.
- Promote the visibility of non-traditional and underrepresented populations within specific fields (e.g. women in the trades; men in early childhood education).
Goal 2
Foster a culture where everyone feels that they are valued and belong.
Strategies:
- Grow intentional spaces that build and support equity-minded value systems at the College and show respect for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ).
- Identity and recognize symbolic indicators of inclusion and belonging and represent these with respect and understanding (e.g Safe Spaces).
- Create opportunities for meaningful connection through shared experiences that highlight diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Goal 3
Ensure that all voices at the college are included and uplifted at every level.
Strategies:
- Ensure pathways for individuals at all levels, at every location to participate in college initiatives and committees.
- Establish avenues for participation and input into DEIJ initiatives that extends to everyone at the College as well as the community.
- Evaluate and revise the current system of Shared Governance.
Goal 4
Examine our policies and practices for systemic barriers to access and success.
Strategies:
- Develop continuous opportunities for institutional evaluation of policies and procedures that may disenfranchise specific populations.
- Examine the impact of cost on different student groups.
- Analyze the effectiveness of our safety net for our students, especially those traditionally underrepresented in higher education.
Goal 5
Actively develop and contribute to decisions, work and dialogue that supports social justice and equitable change.
Strategies:
- Expand outreach and availability of programs that promote DEIJ within the college and community and the counties we serve.
- Collaborate with change-makers in our neighboring counties and national networks to stay informed of and be involved in actions that support equitable change.
- Make institutional decisions that actively push back against systems of oppression, discrimination and marginalization.
