Diversity Action Council

Highlights from the Quincy University Mission Statement:

Quincy University stands as a Catholic, independent, liberal arts institution of higher learning in the Franciscan tradition. Inspired by the spirit of Francis and Clare of Assisi, we respect each person as a sister or brother with dignity, value, and worth. We work for justice, peace and the integrity of creation. We prepare men and women for leadership and for the transformation of the world by educating them to seek knowledge that leads to wisdom. We welcome and invite all to share our spirit and our life.

“Diversity” at Quincy University

The aforementioned university mission statement states that QU will strive to promote an environment that welcomes and invites “all to share our spirit and our life.” This mission reflects an inclusive spirit that undoubtedly attracts students from around the world who wish to thrive in an environment that respects, and even values their vastly divergent perspectives, customs, languages, and orientations toward life. This statement, at its core, aptly captures the inclusive manner in which the concept of diversity is understood by the Quincy University community. Diversity, therefore, is not limited by census classifications or regional designations, but instead is reflective of the many identities that make up one’s total self—that which makes us fully human. Thus, while the diversity-related initiatives discussed herein may, at times, include focus on a specific group or collection of groups, the diversity action plan is intended to represent an initial step toward moving the university forward with an intention and direction regarding diversity-related action.

Diversity Action Council

The following excerpt, intended to clarify the impetus for the development of a diversity action council at Quincy University, was adopted from the original “Diversity Action Council Proposal” approved by the QU Executive Leadership team:

Within the vision statement of Quincy University it highlights that the university will strive to build and maintain a sense of community, while promoting the value of inclusion and diversity among all its constituencies. It goes on to state that Quincy University will embrace its Franciscan values which include, hospitality and respect for all and the integrity of creation.

As the university continues to increase its diversity across its student body population there is an identified need for a committee such as the Diversity Action Council (DAC). One of the main purposes of the Diversity Action Council will be to uphold the principles set forth by the university’s vision statement. Another purpose of the DAC will be committed to ensuring that Quincy University provides an environment that prevents discrimination of any type, promotes a bias-free atmosphere and showcases the importance of diversity and inclusion to students, faculty/staff and administration.

Based on the 2009 Self-Study Report submitted to the Higher Learning Commission, there have been three identified areas of improvement for Quincy University, those to include:

• The University has fallen short of its goals in recruiting diverse faculty.
• The lack of racial and ethnic diversity in the area community has made it particularly challenging, particularly in times when budgetary constraints affect the funding of salaries.
• The University has increased student diversity, but there are still few opportunities for students to experience discussions and positive exchanges with students from racial and ethnic backgrounds other than their own. The Mission calls for continued emphasis on recruitment and efforts by instructors to design units that foreground diverse perspectives if this goal is to be fully achieved.

The committee, in conjunction with the Office of Multicultural and Leadership Programs and Campus Ministry, will provide continual multicultural resources and educational initiatives to students, faculty/staff, and administration. Minority members of the student body have identified a feeling of lack of support on the campus; to that the DAC has been identified as need in order in ensure that an environment is created where all feel safe and supported. The DAC will assist in showcasing the appreciation of diversity and multiculturalism and identifying areas of concern in regards to diversity as they appear both on the campus and in the surrounding community.

Committee Charge

The DAC will be responsible for intercepting any bias related issues on campus and addressing this issue two-fold:

(1) those targeted by a bias-related incident will be provided with support as well as referred to the appropriate campus resources and

(2) the council will educate the greater campus and community about the issues at large, being sure not to isolate a specific person or incident which ensures and promotes a bias-free atmosphere for the entire QU campus and surrounding community.

As a result of this review, the DAC may provide written recommendations to the university’s executive leadership team or a representative member.

In the spirit of fostering an environment where all students have adequate opportunities to thrive, the DAC will also be charged with promoting collaborative partnerships with various entities (i.e., university departments, offices, and student groups) across campus. The DAC will also promote collaboration with relevant community leaders and community-based initiatives that support the committee’s goals.

The current council consists of representatives from Campus Ministry, Academic Affairs, Athletics and Student Development.

Circa 2012

Diversity-Related Grievance

Diversity-related grievances can be submitted using the form below. The DAC will attempt to review grievances in a timely fashion (i.e., occurring, at minimum, during each DAC meeting). Grievances will be reviewed in order of receipt and reporters reserve the option to remain anonymous should they choose.