From President Kelley: Creation of Diversity Advisory Council

To the University of North Dakota Community:

I am pleased to announce that I have acted favorably on the recommendation of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Vice President for Student Affairs to create a UND Diversity Advisory Council. The Council results from a recommendation by the Diversity Advisory Subcommittee of the Council on Campus Climate, and will replace that Subcommittee. The Council will report directly to the President.

The recommendation includes a charge that, in keeping with the mission of the University, the Council should “broaden, deepen, and invigorate UND’s commitment to a diverse, multicultural, and inclusive campus community.” During the remainder of this academic year, I am asking the Council to examine that charge and (1) create a solid foundation for the work of the Council by gaining familiarity with existing information about diversity policies, programs, and practices, (2) review the charge and recent work of the Diversity Advisory Subcommittee and draft a mission statement for the Diversity Advisory Council, and (3) develop an initial agenda and operating procedures for the Council.

Dr. Steve Light, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education, Professor of Political Science & Public Administration, and co-Director of the Institute for the Study of Tribal Gaming Law & Policy, has accepted my request to serve as the first Chair of the Diversity Advisory Council. Dr. Light brings to this task both sensitivity to and an academic expertise in diversity matters, including extensive classroom experience in teaching about law and public policy related to diversity and equality. His publications encompass research on best practices in diversity education. His most recent book is entitled “THE LAW IS GOOD” – THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT, REDISTRICTING, AND BLACK REGIME POLITICS. He has also served as a member of the Diversity Advisory Subcommittee for many years, and is familiar with the work of that body.

The Council will be comprised of 15 members:

• 3 students nominated by the Student Government President
• 3 faculty members nominated by the University Senate President
• 3 staff members nominated by the Staff Senate President
• 3 undesignated members nominated by the Vice President for Student Affairs
• 3 undesignated members nominated by the Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Light will be consulting with these five individuals to initiate the nomination process.

Our University has taken significant steps to make this a welcoming community where difference is respected and diversity is embraced, and my administration and I are committed to that goal. I am confident that the UND Diversity Advisory Council can build upon and refine these efforts and identify new avenues for enriching the University experience for all by promoting diversity and inclusion.

— President Robert O. Kelley