Diversity Strategic Plan
Diversity Strategic Plan
Diversity Strategic Plan
2021 - 2022
Land acknowledgement
At this initial stage, the office also partnered with Orientation organizers, Nevada FIT, the Core Curriculum unit, and The
Center, Every Student, Every Story to provide trainings and learning opportunities centered on diversity, equity, inclusion,
and social justice. Through this partnerships, one immediate action resulting for the early 2021-22 academic year was the
incorporation of DEI trainings, as a central element in this year’s Nevada FIT, impacting approximately 3,670 new
students, who attended a training on diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Further over 450 mentors and
orientation leaders were also participants of a workshop on DEI values-focused action to advance social justice and
allyship (or accompaniment).
Given the numerical importance of Hispanic/Latinx students for the state, as well as the nation, the longstanding UNR
goal of achieving Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI), as is the case with the majority of the other NSHE institutions, has
also been incorporated into the emerging DEI Action Plans, in order to support our Hispanic/Latinx students as well as
other, first-generation, low-income and/or underserved student populations. Consistently, each College/School has
created specific recruitment, enrollment, and retention goals, which include the creation of affinity groups and clubs,
outreach efforts at high schools, recruitment campaigns, and more (see Appendices).
Recent and Ongoing Progress
Planned Initiatives:
• Focus on Latinx students • Emphasis on integration of
and advancing HSI efforts with Student Services Fall 2021 Enrollment
designation for increased retention, 2%
belonging and community 8% 3% White
• Focus on Indigenous 0%
groups, legislative tuition • Focus on creating a culture of 1% Hispanic
access and scholarship assessment, evaluation and 8% Black
programs transparency on DEI
4% Asian
• Emphasis on integration of • DEI Dashboard to include 52%
efforts with Student Native American
student enrollment and
Services for increased retention Pacific Islander
retention, belonging and 22%
community Multiple
International
Unknown
Planned Initiatives: Further, and in order to advance the notion of inclusive excellence in teaching a diverse classroom, a
pilot project was initiated in April 2021, following the documented identification of the academic DEI Task Force of
requiring, “faculty development and teaching supports on DEI”. This evolving series of workshops will be expanded in
early October and will consist of four, two-hour sessions, each, building upon the evidence to further provide a set of clear
and tangible recommendations on pedagogies and teaching that address and are mindful of anti-racist, xenophobic, anti-
immigrant, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, and other anti-educational biases and concerns. All sessions will be led by
Dr. Kenya Minott, working directly with academic Task Force members and Deans. Specifically, and working in close
collaboration with the Office of the Provost, the workshops will:
• Address principles of inclusive excellence, diversifying syllabi, the impact of microaggressions in building inclusive
environments, managing classroom conflict, and addressing hate and bias in the classroom.
• Submit a proposal for the development of a graduation requirement course, on Social justice, Power and Democracy.
Recent and Ongoing Progress
Responding to the multiple levels of need created by the pandemic and addressing the socio-economic, as well as
health impacts being experienced, differently, by the diverse UNR communities, Diversity & Inclusion, and in collaboration
with some of the members of the Work, Life, Family and Council, carried out a University-wide survey to identify needs
pertaining to social needs and emotional well-being for the different campus communities. Findings were shared with
campus leadership, as well as Affinity Groups and the Faculty Diversity Committee, to begin considering resources and
operations, as the University moved away from remote work.
In an effort to decrease overreliance on “policing” and to emphasize community partnerships, Diversity & Inclusion has
actively been collaborating with Police Services to create a Police Services DEI Action Plan for the department (see
Appendices).
Additionally, in working in close collaboration with the Senate’s Faculty Diversity Committee, Disability Resource Center
and MarCom, Diversity & Inclusion added a Neurodiverse Alliance last Spring 2021 to its office-sponsored faculty and
staff Initiatives. Importantly, this continues to align our work on accessibility concerns. and as it is also being promoted
by the Board of Regents, with its renaming of its Cultural Diversity Committee (CDC) to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and
Accessibility Committee (IDEA).
Planned Initiatives:
• Emphasis on educational outlets and resources, sense of belonging and emotional well-being and other
• Addressing long-standing anxieties/discomforts among BIPOC groups
• Working with the Students Services’ Student Activism Team, our Hate and Bias Response Team will continue to
improve on its alignments with the Title IX/EO Office, focus on better integration, transparency and more timely
responses, to support not only students, but also faculty and staff
• Ongoing monthly celebrations and acknowledgment/communication on important DEI dates through increasing
integration of efforts and timely communication
• Continuing to develop the role of the D&I as a central coordinator of DEI efforts, avoiding fragmentation and
weakening of efforts
• Expanding the UDI’s social media presence
• Creating and dissemination of DEI Terms and Communications Guide
• Development and dissemination of We the Pack video series
• Ongoing development of the open-access, Dialogue, Equity and Democracy public education series
Recent and Ongoing Progress
• Ongoing Education on Freedom of Expression, Respectful Dissent and Democracy, including this year’s, 2022
Northern Nevada Diversity Summit
• First year celebration of October 12th as Indigenous People’s Day—a NSHE recognition coordinated successfully,
last year, by the ODI, through NSHE’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Council (EDIC)
• Proposal for Iconography and Representation Task Force to carry out an inventory of critical/principal university
spaces to ensure the representation of the university’s original inhabitants and the evolving diversity of our communities
• Proposal for a Center for Restorative Justice, as part of Diversity & Inclusion and integrating the related work of
Police Services and Title IX/EO Office, to initiate anti-bias training with senior administration, including Deans,
continuing into the campus community
o Required resources and infrastructure, including personnel, to demonstrate a commitment to prevent, respond
to, and take accountability for harmful, discriminatory, and harassing behaviors
College of Business Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action
Plan
Strategic Goals
Goal Area 1: Student Centered
Action Items:
• Create Hispanic or Latinx Business Student Association and hold first meeting (In progress)
• Solicit significant student input via feedback forms/surveys to gather input on ideas and
opportunities for improvement in diversity.(Ongoing)
• Revise College of Business Vision/Mission/Initiative statements to more organically and
explicitly integrate the College’s value of Diversity and Inclusion (In process)
• Utilize College of Business social media platforms to create student engagement via posts, blogs,
and other collaborative means (Ongoing)
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Create outline of Hispanic Business Student Association, identify association leaders; collect and
store student input for ongoing creating Diversity goals for the College; College of Business posts its
revised Vision/Mission/Initiative statements on the departmental site; student recruiting
information and events are publicized through social media platformsstarting in summer 2022.
Action Items:
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Create outline of events for the upcoming symposium; develop curriculum outline and have
course approved through Curriculum process; identify required courses for minor; map out
requirements and specific timeline for students, by semester, for majors in other colleges, and
identify areas where their courses already satisfy the College of Business requirements; draft a
list of discussion questions for the video series and identify five women within the faculty
toparticipate.
Action Items:
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Hold information sessions specifically for students from diverse backgrounds about PhD programs
(Fall 2021); host an Undergraduate Research Symposium (Spring 2022).
Action Items:
• Increase outreach efforts in searches for administrative positions by increasing the College’s
presence at outreach and recruiting events.
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
Number of diverse applicants
Recent accomplishments
- Is a six week program sponsored by the US State Department that brings 25 young
entrepreneurs from Sub-Saharan Africa to campus to learn about leadership and
entrepreneurship.
- Two former Mandela Scholars have returned to UNR to pursue MBAs.
PhD Project
Strategic Goals
Goal Area 1. Student Centered
Objective 1: Reduce barriers that limit underrepresented students from enrolling in CABNR programs
Action Items:
• Assess the application rate for underrepresented groups CABNR admissions, number of
students admitted and admits to enrolled (Ongoing)
• Create an inventory of cultural hubs or locations to recruit students from in order to increase
diversity
• Assess ways to target recruitment of underrepresented groups from junior high schools, high
schools. (i.e., utilizing best practices of mentorship programs lead by the county school districts
such as the Clark County School District Mentoring Program)
• Facilitate recruitment and active participation strategies for secondary school students and
their guardians to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Explore recruitment of prospective students from tribal communities throughout the Great
Basin area with consideration of geographic area tribal community in lieu of state boundary.
Create collaborations and programs that can improve tribal students participation in CABNR
programs. (i.e., New Beginnings for Tribal Students program). Create internship program for
Tribal students currently enrolled (In progress)
• Assess the distribution of academic scholarship funds in CABNR to determine if awards are
being equitably funded (Ongoing)
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Report that relates to quantitative data regarding applicants, admitted, and enrolled students
to specific majors in CABNR for identifying gaps in diversity, as well as the cultural hubs and
mentoring programs that may be effective at filling those gaps submitted to Dean by May 31,
2022; increase retention of Tribal students and increase number of Tribal transfer students into
CABNR programs; meet grant required match for tribal students program; report regarding
equity in distribution of scholarship funding submitted to the Dean by May 31, 2022
Goal Area 3*. Community Centered
Objective 1: Enhance individual and communities’ ability to improve and achieve economic security
Action Items:
• Explore recommendations to the CABNR Marketing and Commmunications team for ways to
improve communications to a diverse audience
• Evaluate demographic characteristics of program participants for the purpose of identifying
deficiencies in program diversity
o Identify a pipeline from diverse groups utilizing cultural hubs within the community to
expand the promotion of CABNR Extension programs including small business
development and professional development.
o Identify ways to improve communication about CABNR Extension and NAES programs to
urban, rural, suburban, tribal and inner-city populations (Ongoing)
• Improve our reach in all segments of the community with limited English proficiency
o Explore translation certification (such as Test of English as a Foreign Language known as
TOEFL) to support internal staff, faculty who are relied upon to translate literature for
Extension’s programs
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Deliver a document to the CABNR Marketing and Communications team with recommendations
by May 31, 2022; create a report on the evaluation of baseline effectiveness and efficiency of
programming to reach diverse groups within the community prepared by May 31, 2022; report
to the Dean on opportunities for training and translation certification by May 31, 2022.
Action Items:
• Recognize efforts by faculty and staff toward the goal of achieving diversity, equity and inclusion
(In progress)
• Explore ways to provide CABNR-wide professional development opportunities related to
diversity, equity and inclusion (In progress)
• Review appropriate tools recommended by the University Diversity and Inclusion Officer tools
that will assess current climate within CABNR and among constituents
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Launch of Diversity Award program and award of first recipient by May 31, 2022; conduct, co-
host, or collaborate on at least two seminars with subject matter experts that can be delivered
* Numbering of the goal areas is based upon the CABNR DEI Strategic Plan
to all CABNR employees in both northern and southern areas of the state by end of academic
year 2021-2022
College of Education and Human Development Diversity
and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
Mission Statement
Inspired by its land-grant foundation, the University of Nevada, Reno provides outstanding learning,
discovery, and engagement programs that serve the economic, social, environmental and cultural needs
of the citizens of Nevada, the nation, and the world. The University recognizes and embraces the critical
importance of diversity in preparing students for global citizenship and is committed to a culture of
excellence, inclusion, and accessibility.
COED Mission:
The College of Education & Human Development is a recognized leader in guiding, shaping, and
mentoring high-performing education professionals who will go forth with a lifelong love of learning and
with the skills essential for thriving in a global, knowledge-based economy. We are committed to a
diverse and inclusive learning community that works to promote education across disciplines for
everyone, locally, nationally and around the globe. The University of Nevada, Reno is recognized by the
Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as an R1 institution, which is reserved for
doctoral universities with the highest levels of research activity.
COED Vision:
In all of its activities, College of Education and Human Development faculty and staff embrace the
following values for our graduates and ourselves:
1. We value diversity, including but not limited to age, ethnicity, class, gender, indigeneity,
language, disability, ability, race, sexual identity, religious status, gender expression, educational
background, geographic context, nationality, immigration status, income, marital status,
parental status, and work experiences.
2. We value ethical practice and abide by the ethical guidelines of each of our respective
professional organizations.
3. We value integrity in all of our actions.
4. We value equity.
5. We value respect.
6. We value a culture of caring and relationship building.
To meet our values, COEHD has established the following DEI goals that will be carried out by the
Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Undergraduate Programs in collaboration with the
Diversity Committee. Below are the goals and their respective action items.
Strategic Goals
Goal Area 1: Education for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Objective 4: Build capacity for the integration DEI frameworks in curriculum, pedagogy & policies
Action Items:
a. Curriculum mapping in light of accreditation’s focus on diversity as a cross-cutting theme
b. Peer modeling & exchange of ideas
c. Update the definition of “diversity” throughout all policy documents
i. Critically examine existing policies and practices for bias [Ongoing]
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• Data analysis; attendance to series and subsequent forums; critical reflection on diversity goals
at the end of the year; evaluation of curricular material; reflections on teaching evaluations;
attendance to student diversity forums (see below).
Objective 1: Increase diversity in teacher education students and all college programs
Action Items:
a. Targeted recruitment
b. Continue/materialize “grow your own” discussions with the school district [Fall 2021 due to
COVID]
c. Review/evaluate recruitment and practices – [Fall 2020/Spring 2021]
d. Move from passive to active recruitment techniques [Spring 2021]
Metrics/Performance Indicators:
• # of faculty recruited and retained; pool of questions are made available to interviewers;
indeifty 10 doctoral students within the pipeline; mentoring program leaders and mentees are
identified.
College of Engineering Diversity and Inclusion Operational
Action Plan
Mission Statement
Inspired by its land-grant foundation, the University of Nevada, Reno provides outstanding learning,
discovery, and engagement programs that serve the economic, social, environmental, and cultural needs
of the citizens of Nevada, the nation, and the world. The University recognizes and embraces the critical
importance of diversity in preparing students for global citizenship and is committed to a culture of
excellence, inclusion, and accessibility. Based on the belief that a diverse community of engineering
professionals better serves a diverse society, the College of Engineering at the University of Nevada Reno
is committed to maintaining and enhancing an inclusive community with open collaboration, equal
access, and equality for our entire campus community. The College strives at the highest level to attract,
develop, and support qualified persons of diverse backgrounds through collaboration and innovation to
participate in its' educational, research, and outreach missions and programs to advance the field of
engineering and society at the local, regional, national, and global levels. The College of Engineering
(CoEN) is focused on striving for inclusive excellence through
• Committed leadership
• Dedicated financial and human resources
• Understanding of current and historical institutional context
• Accountability and data collection
• Intersectional Approach
Vision: The vision for diversity within the College of Engineering is to achieve national recognition as
a leading institution in inclusive excellence based on the ASEE professional society standard
• Deans pledge (https://diversityrecognition.asee.org/application-process/guidelines/)
We define diversity as the condition of having different fundamental characteristics or being composed
of differing elements; the inclusion of different types of people (such as people of different races or
cultures) in a group or organization.
The CoEN Diversity committee recognizes that many dimensions exist that describe human beings and
speak to the human experience, such as race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation,
socio-economic status, language, culture, national origin, religious commitments, age, physical and
mental ability status, neurodiversity, learning preferences, military status, immigration status, citizenship
status, political perspectives among other identity categories.
We define equity as the condition of having justice according to natural law or right, specifically the
freedom from bias, favoritism, or inconsistent treatment.
The CoEN Diversity committee will promote equality of access, opportunity, outcomes,
engagement/contribution, and reward/compensation by actively challenging and responding to bias,
harassment, and discrimination in our College. We are committed to providing an environment of equal
opportunity for all persons so that they can maximize their potential. Any form of discrimination based on
race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression,
ability status, religion, height, weight, or veteran status as prescribed by University policy is prohibited.
We define inclusion as the act, activities, and policies of including or the state of being included.
The CoEN Diversity committee is committed to pursuing deliberate efforts to ensure that our College is a
place where differences are valued, different perspectives are respectfully heard, and where every
individual feels a sense of belonging. We know that by building a critical mass of diverse groups and
creating a vibrant climate of inclusiveness, we can more effectively leverage the resources of diversity to
advance our collective capabilities.
Strategic Goals
To accomplish its mission and achieve its vision, the College has set the following strategic goals:
Goal 1: Improve our shared understanding and valuing of diversity in all its forms.
Goal 2: Increase the recruitment, retention, and completion rate of students of diverse backgrounds.
Goal 3: Increase the recruitment and retention of faculty and staff of diverse backgrounds.
Goal 4: Engage in diversity in our curriculum, scholarly and artistic endeavors, and daily operations.
Strategic Objectives/Priorities
To achieve these goals, the College has set the following strategic objectives:
Given the above goals and objectives outlined by the College with input from University Committees our
immediate action plan is as follows:
Education for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training Across College Faculty and Staff
Objective 1: Have at least 75% of faculty and staff participate in interactive training related to bias, equity,
and inclusion.
Measures: The College has retained an outside training agency, Cultural Excellence: Ideas and Discussion
(CEID) (Regina Lewis, Ph.D.), to provide training to each unit. This training targets departments,
leadership, and outreach positions within the College. ReginaSpeaking will provide documentation of all
faculty and staff that participate in the offered training. Lists of those who participate will be compared to
the faculty and staff throughout the College to assess completion. This task will be completed by the end
of Spring 2021.
Engineering Unit Action Plan Development
Objective 2: Each department/unit will generate three actionable and measurable goals to integrate
diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout all departmental activities.
Measures: Finalized goals will be delivered to the College diversity, equity, and inclusion committee no
later than the last day of the Spring 2021 semester. The committee will review preliminary goals to ensure
that goals are measurable and aligned with best practices to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Completion of goal development by all departments/units is expected and will be measured.
Revision and publication of the College of Engineering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic
Plan
Objective 3: Revise and publish a diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic plan that reflects the goals of the
College and the units within the College
Measures: By the end of the Fall of 2021, the College of Engineering will publish its first diversity, equity,
and inclusion strategic plan. This plan will be integrated with larger College and University strategic
documents. This strategic plan's goals, priorities, and objectives will be assessed through coordinated
efforts with University and disciplinary efforts for change in engineering. Publication of this plan also
creates additional accountability for the College to lead on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
Graduate School Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
Mission Statements:
• University of Nevada, Reno Mission Statement
Inspired by its land-grant foundation, the University of Nevada, Reno provides outstanding
learning, discovery, and engagement programs that serve the economic, social, environmental
and cultural needs of the citizens of Nevada, the nation, and the world. The University
recognizes and embraces the critical importance of diversity in preparing students for global
citizenship and is committed to a culture of excellence, inclusion, and accessibility.
• Graduate School Mission Statement
The University of Nevada, Reno Graduate School seeks to create a 21st century graduate
student environment that values and promotes diversity, exploits the power and promise of
technology, and provides an outstanding educational experience that enables students to
successfully achieve their career goals, while serving as a catalyst for transforming the state’s
economy into one that is diversified and knowledge based.
Goal Area 1: To increase enrollment, retention, and graduation rates of diverse graduate students
• Objectives:
1. Adopt and implement innovative recruitment strategies for underrepresented college
students
We will implement annual Virtual Graduate School open house sessions
multiple times throughout the academic year and will advertise these sessions
with our current GradFIT partners and with other regional institutions with high
undergraduate underrepresented student enrollments. Also, we will expand the
reach of our GradFIT program by holding both in-person and virtual GradFIT
options to serve a larger population of prospective students. These efforts will
be assessed by the tracking attendance and creating a database which will allow
us to determine whether participants apply and matriculate into graduate
programs at the University.
2. Increase and improve graduate student resources/services to assist with retention and
graduation rates in areas such as mentoring, mental health support, funding and
professional development.
3. Review policies and practices such as graduate program handbooks and graduate school
policies/requirements for inclusive and equitable language/procedures
• Measures:
o Increased enrollment, retention, and graduation numbers
Enrollment and retention will be evaluated on a semester basis and graduation
on an annual basis. Graduate programs will be evaluated and demographic data
will be reviewed to increase identify priority areas for recruitment, retention
and graduation of underrepresented groups within graduate programs. For
example, some programs may need to increase efforts in diversifying their
gender ratio or other underrepresented groups and more targeted approaches
can be made to those populations based on the annual evaluations and review
of demographics.
o Increased number of campus opportunities, resources, and services for graduate
students related to professional/career development, well-being, and mentoring
Current initiatives meeting the needs of students will be expanded and
advertised through the use of the web, social media and email to all graduate
students. Evaluations of these initiatives will be given for graduate students to
provide feedback on the effectiveness of these initiatives to determine what can
be improved.
o Revisions of graduate program handbooks and other graduate student-related
documents that are equitable and accessible
Goal Area 2: To increase an inclusive and equitable environment for all graduate students
• Objectives:
1. Increase awareness of current resources and services available to graduate students and
their families
2. Creation of family-friendly policies and environment to increase non-financial family
support for graduate students.
Hosting of social gatherings and events that encourage family attendance
that can familiarize family members to the experiences of graduate student
life and encourage more involvement with the graduate student’s research.
Increased attendance of family members to events such as
thesis/dissertation defenses. The word “family” also refers to any
individuals the graduate student considers to be family and does not
necessarily include partners, children, parents, etc., but can include friends
or other non-immediate relatives.
3. Implementation of biennial climate/experience survey to graduate students
4. Required equity and diversity training provided by Graduate School Staff and Faculty
Facilitators of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Center for Improvement of
Mentored Research Experiences in Research (CIMER) to new graduate faculty through
Mentoring Mentors program
• Measures:
o Increased use of resources and services by graduate students. Evaluation of these
resources and services will be done on an annual basis to further improve efforts.
o Increased involvement between the University and graduate students’ family members.
Family members report an increase in a sense of belonging and feeling welcomed
through survey tools distributed to family members and their students.
o Adoption and implementation of new initiatives based on biennial survey results to
address concerns. As well as initiate proactive initiatives to meet potential challenges
that could arise
Goal Area 3: To create an inclusive and equitable environment for all postdocs
• Objectives:
1. Increase awareness of current resources and services available to postdocs that can
better serve the population’s professional development and sense of belonging.
2. Establish postdoctoral association and advisory board to further expand the presence
and importance of postdocs at the University. These groups will serve as a voice to
advocate for the population at large to provide further support to postdocs.
3. Implementation of biennial climate/experience survey to postdocs to better understand
experiences and challenges faced by the population in an effort to combat these
negatives.
• Measures:
o Increased use of resources and services by postdocs through the increase of attendance
to events and utilization of resources to provided to them. Evaluation of these events
and resources will be done on an annual basis with consultation from postdoc leaders to
further improve efforts.
o Increased engagement and visibility of postdoctoral population on University campus.
Postdocs representatives serving on various University committees and increased
feedback is sought from postdocs in regards to larger University decisions such as the
University Strategic Plan.
o Adoption and implementation of new initiatives based on biennial survey results to
address concerns and challenges of the postdoc community. The results will be evaluated
with the postdoc advisory board, postdoc association and upper administration in an
effort to further support postdocs with challenges they may be facing.
Honors College Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
Mission Statement
The Honors College underwent a systemic strategic planning process during the 2019-2020 AY that
recast honors in a far-more DEI-focused manner. Since the previous honors program’s mission
statement did not display a clear alignment with the UNR mission statement’s focus on DEI, a new set of
mission pillars (values), integrated into the mission statement, were created which will now guide a
significant amount of program operations moving forward. This is articulated below.
Strategic Goals
Goal Area 1 Devise new DEI-focused honors mission pillars that guide program operations
Objective 1: New pillars finalized and integrated into mission and program operations
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. Integration of pillars and new DEI-focused holistic assessment protocols into new
honors admission process
a. Timeline: by 8/1/2020
b. Personnel: HC MPO staff and admission committee staff
b. Integration of pillars into new honors course proposal process
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2020
b. Personnel: Erin Edgington/curriculum committees
c. Dissemination of pillars/revised honors mission on website and in print/promo
materials
a. Timeline: by 1/1/2021
b. Personnel: HC staff and marcom liaisons
d. Integration of pillars into new Honors Record (student archive of accomplishment
and program requirement fulfillment)
a. Timeline: by 3/1/2021
b. Personnel: HC staff and TLT liaisons
e. Integration of new pillars into new honors student conduct policy
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2021
b. Personnel: HC advising staff
f. Integration of new pillars into Phase 2 of the Mentorship/Coaching Program
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2022
b. Personnel: HC staff and external stakeholders
Goal Area 2: Create community-enhancing experiences that augment the centrality of DEI competency
within the honors framework
Objective 1: LLC Freshman course sections revised with new DEI-focus
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. Revised syllabi complete with new focus in place
a. Timeline: by 8/15/2020
b. Personnel: HON215 teaching faculty
b. Recruitment of new DEI-focused teaching staff to augment current HON215 class
section capacity
a. Timeline: by 7/1/2021
b. Personnel: HC staff and recruited teaching faculty
Objective 2: Develop Honors-focused international trips for underrepresented honors
populations, specifically, and HC students generally
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. USAC and faculty-liaison contacts established
a. Timeline: by 6/1/2020
b. Personnel: HC staff
b. Prospective trip times and locations determined
a. Timeline: by 1/1/2021
b. Personnel: HC staff, USAC, faculty ambassadors
c. Student scholarship dollars identified for trips
a. Timeline: by 6/1/2021
b. Personnel: Dean
d. Trip itineraries/details finalized
a. Timeline: by 10/1/2021
b. Personnel: LLC planning committee
Objective 3: Develop DEI/Global Competency Area Studies Micro-Curriculum within honors to
advance DEI awareness and HC mission opportunities (equity)
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. Convene subcommittee
a. Timeline: by 1/1/2021
b. Personnel: subgroup of larger LLC planning committee
b. Identify SLOs for DEI/Global Competency Curriculum continuum
a. Timeline: by 5/1/2021
b. Personnel: subcommittee
c. Identify and revise HON215/6, HON410, and international trip focus to align DEI/global
competency interests and SLOs
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2021
b. Personnel: LLC planning committee and subcommittee
Goal Area 3: Increase Underrepresented student population in honors
Objective 1: Revise and enhance recruitment outreach activities
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. Dean/staff will conduct direct recruitment sessions with at least 10 DEI-targeted high
school student groups yearly
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2021
b. Personnel: Dean/MPO staff
b. Dean/staff will conduct direct recruitment sessions with at least 10 DEI-targeted on-
campus groups yearly
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2021
b. Personnel: Dean/MPO staff
c. MPO staff will plan at least 3 joint programmatic activities between HC and DEI-targeted
organizations yearly
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2022
b. Personnel: MPO/HSC
d. New print/online/social media marketing materials/campaigns created that is more DEI-
centric
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2021
b. Personnel: MPO/HC staff
Objective 2: Devise and fulfill numerical recruitment goals
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. 10% of program students will hail from underrepresented populations
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2021
b. Personnel: HC/MPO staff
b. 15% of program students will hair from underrepresented populations
a. Timeline: by 9/1/2022
b. Personnel: HC/MPO staff
College of Liberal Arts Diversity and Inclusion Operational
Action Plan
Mission Statement
With the mission of the University of Nevada, Reno as a guiding principle, the College of Liberal Arts
educates and inspires students to be engaged, flexible, and critically literate global citizens. Our students
learn to evaluate, synthesize, communicate, experiment, and create in order to produce solutions to a
range of known and future problems. Our ambitious, innovative, and community-engaged research and
creative work in and across the Creative Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences focuses on the varied
contexts and expressions of the human condition. We aim to create a community of diverse and agile
thinkers, makers, and doers who thrive in a challenging, changing world. Ultimately, we seek to better
society and elevate humanity.
The College of Liberal Arts is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in order to
ensure the highest level of scholarly and creative achievement and social and interpersonal
engagement. The college defines diversity as encompassing the broad array of cultural factors, including
age, ability, religion, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, first generation college status, sexual
orientation, indigenous heritage, nation of origin, gender and gender identity, language, immigration
status, and veteran status. The college views diversity of representation and creating a sense of
belonging to be key to its mission of forming a culturally diverse and inclusive community of faculty,
staff and students who are prepared and committed to participating in and serving an increasingly
diverse and connected global community. Our strategic plan is driven by objectives established in
relation to faculty, staff, graduate student, and undergraduate student recruitment and retention efforts
designed to increase the diversity present within the college and to ensure an equitable and inclusive
approach to all aspects of college operations, governance, and community relations.
“The College of Liberal Arts unequivocally rejects white supremacy, racism and other forms of
hate and bias. We will work to dismantle racism and discrimination on campus, in our
communities and in society as part of our shared efforts to elevate humanity. We are committed
to creating a campus community where all can work and learn freely, safely and productively,
regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, gender
identity, political affiliation, economic status, veteran status, or ability.”
The statement and additional resources are made readily available and public on our Diversity, Research
& Engagement webpage, which also contains a link to a robust list of Antiracist, antibias and antihate
resources and important messages on Black Lives Matter and Anti-Asian Hate and Bias. The
development of this webpage and related resources was a significant achievement last year, but the
other important milestones include the development of our identity-based faculty and staff working
groups (See Goal 3 for more details), the creation of minors in identity-based areas studies (see Goal 2
for more details), the development of a CLA Search Toolkit and search committee training that
incorporates best practices for recruiting diverse faculty and staff, and the launching of a new college
magazine entitled Elevating Humanity, which highlights the multiple ways faculty, staff and students in
the college engage diverse and underserved communities (see Goal 6 for more details).
To advance our mission, the College of Liberal Arts has identified the strategic goals below for 2021–
2022, which are drawn from our 2019–2024 Strategic Plan. Goals are assessed annually and a related
implementation plan is created each year:
Strategic Goals
Goal 1: Recruit to advance a culture of inclusion and increase the diversity of applicants and
acceptances among our faculty and staff.
Objectives:
• By May 2022, the Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will develop supplemental
online search committee training focusing on implicit bias in hiring and how to conduct diverse,
equitable, and inclusive searches. (This training is currently offered in person.)
• Ensure that efforts to increase faculty diversity translate to diverse representation across all
faculty and staff contract types and across all roles assumed by faculty and staff members,
including administrative positions within the college; will report findings by May of 2022.
• By November 2021, compile and examine faculty, staff and student demographics in the college
and use data to inform decisions regarding recruitment efforts for 2022.
• Prioritize retention efforts by providing more structured opportunities and events for mentoring
and professional development of faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds, including the
following:
• Recruit 5–10 current faculty members to participate in the CLA Faculty Success Program
in Spring 2022.
• Encourage diverse faculty to participate in the multiple workshops and mentoring
opportunities offered in our CLA Faculty Professional Development Program.
• Continue developing and supporting affinity-based working groups. We currently have
three; our goal is to have six by May of 2022.
• Work with the Planning Committee to evaluate and reconsider P&T practices and policies to
ensure they are equitable. Complete a report with recommendations by May of 2022.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• Solicit and examine feedback from users of online search committee training regarding its
quality and effectiveness.
• Demographic data on faculty, staff and students will be compiled, shared, and made readily
available by the end of November 2021.
• Solicit and examine feedback from faculty who participate in our multiple mentoring and
professional development workshops, working groups, and programs.
Goal 2: Advance a culture of inclusion to improve recruitment and retention of diverse undergraduate
and graduate students.
Objectives:
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• Track progress on recruitment and LiberalArtsFIT programming by examining data; track and
evaluate number of new courses and new programs added; collect data on number of brochures
and videos shared; collect and continually evaluate student enrollment and retention data.
Goal 3: Foster our environment of inclusivity and engagement for students, faculty, and staff
Objectives:
• Establish and support identity-based working groups (e.g., Black, Latinx, Indigenous, LGBTQ+,
Asian, etc.) that have been historically underrepresented in our college and at the university.
These working groups make recommendations to improve faculty, staff, and student
recruitment and retention by focusing on removing structural barriers and inequities that
impede the personal and professional growth of individuals from these groups. They also serve
to support faculty and staff who identify with these identities and advance related research in
the field. Three groups have already been established: Indigenous, Latinx and Black. By May of
2022 we will have three additional working groups: LGBTQ+, AAPI and Disability.
• Offer regular forums, dialogues, and trainings that increase student, faculty, and staff
understanding of the relevance of concepts such as diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism.
• Use results of UNR Climate Survey to re-evaluate and revise the CLA Strategic Plan. Build a plan
for addressing key areas identified for improvement, like enhancing a sense of belonging and
addressing hierarchical barriers.
• CLA Diversity Committee will develop a climate survey for the college. Survey will be completed
by May of 2022 and implemented in Fall 2022. It will include a tool and mechanism for collecting
additional demographic information related to diversity (e.g., sexuality and religion) while
considering ethical and legal issues concerning the collection and use of such data.
• Assist all departments and programs in establishing diversity committees or have designated
diversity officers/liaisons that help identify and implement DEI goals for the department that
align with the DEI goals of the college and university.
• Restructure the CLA Diversity Committee so that it is comprised of at least one diversity liaison
from each department or program in the college and more students.
• Improve coordination and communication with departments and programs regarding DEI issues
through online communication tools (websites, listservs, etc.) and other mechanisms.
• Continue collaboration with the College of Education, the Office of the Provost, TMCC, and the
Washoe County School District to support Pack Teach—an interdisciplinary academic diversity,
equity, and inclusion initiative to expand access to higher education for K-12 students in the
state from underrepresented backgrounds and help prepare future educators from diverse
backgrounds.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• Track number of working groups and committees established; evaluate progress on strategic
plan and climate survey; evaluate impact of Pack Teach (e.g., level of satisfaction, job
placement, student demographics, and other data).
Goal 4: Advance Latino Research Center; seek regional as well as national recognition of its mission as a
hub for Latinx research and engagement and support the goal of the university to become an HSI.
Objectives:
• Conduct a Northern NV Latinx community assessment to learn the specific needs and assets of
the community. The results will guide programming and research initiatives.
• Continue hosting Entérate events to engage members of the local Latinx community.
• Organize and host events that correspond to Latinx cultural celebrations. (e.g., Día de los
Muertos, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Latinx student graduation celebration).
• Engage students in research and networking opportunities. (e.g., support their participation in
the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute national conference and on the Latino Student
Advisory Board).
• Continue to advance research in the field through the publication of Border-lines, participation
in the CLA Latinx Studies Working Group; the development of scholarly talks and forums; and
seeking funding to support research-related activities.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• Report findings and data from community assessment; track number of events hosted, research
and networking opportunities created, publications, scholarly forums, and grants or additional
funding obtained.
Goal 5: Enhance understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion and CLA’s leadership in this area
through education, training, programming, and professional development.
Objectives:
• Continually update and enhance our Diversity, Research & Engagement website and list of
antiracist, antibias and antihate resources.
• Develop additional workshops, tutorials and resources related to DEI and antiracism work.
• Continue to create and support programming centering on DEI and antiracism through the use
of our CLA Diversity Fund and the work conducted by the Campus and Community Engagement
Committee.
• Develop DEI campaigns, including one related to the institutional goal of becoming a Hispanic
Serving Institution.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders on campus and in the community to share resources and
maximize outreach and public engagement efforts to diverse and underrepresented
communities.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• Conduct assessment of Diversity, Research & Engagement website and list of resources; track
and assess the amount and quality of workshops, programming, tutorials, and campaigns
created; create and maintain a list of key stakeholders on campus and in the community.
Goal 6: Strengthen community ties, university relations, access to higher education, and outreach
efforts to diverse and underrepresented communities by developing innovative and engaging public
programming.
Objectives:
• Reward faculty for developing and participating in public engagement activities, especially those
centering on DEI initiatives; ensure these efforts are recognized and valued beyond traditional
forms of service; develop clear guidelines and definitions for outreach and community and public
engagement by May of 2022.
• Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in outreach and public engagement efforts.
• Assess the use and effectiveness of CLA community listservs; develop a plan for improving the use
of community listservs and other forms of social media.
• Track engagement perception of the college in the community (utilize community listservs, solicit
feedback, collect and analyze data, consult with key stakeholders).
• Ask students, faculty, and members of the community about their needs and the type of
programming they would like to see. Invite them to assist with developing programming that
addresses their needs and interests.
• Promote CLA community engagement activities, especially those centering on diversity, equity
and inclusion; publish a second edition of Elevating Humanity in Fall of 2022 and disseminate
widely.
• Continue to cultivate relationships and collaborations with key stakeholders on campus and in the
community; ensure key stakeholders represent a broad spectrum of constituents and diverse
communities, especially those that serve underrepresented populations.
• Expand access to higher education for diverse, non-traditional, and underserved populations
through collaborations with key stakeholders at UNR, in the NSHE System, and in the state of
Nevada. For example, the Humanities Extended Project and the Nevada Prison Education Project.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• Compile reports and recommendations on campus and community engagement; track number
of workshops, tutorials, resources, and campaigns created; create and maintain a list of key
stakeholders on campus and in the community.
Goal 7: Solicit and secure funding and resources necessary to establish and support initiatives that
center on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Objectives:
• Prioritize fundraising efforts that center on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Increase support for existing CLA Diversity Fund.
• Create and support internal fellowships that provide faculty with opportunities to work in the
Department of Gender, Race and Identity for 1–2 years.
• Raise funds to establish additional equity scholarships for underrepresented students.
• Raise funds to expand the number of students served by the CLA Student Emergency Fund.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• Evaluate amount of funds raised or percentage increase in funding for DEI programs;
track and assess number of scholarships and funding opportunities added.
University Libraries and Teaching & Learning Technologies
Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
University Libraries Mission & Vision
In support of the University mission to advance teaching, research, student learning, and community
engagement, the University Libraries embrace intellectual inquiry and innovation, nurture the
production of new knowledge, and foster excellence in education through scholarly resources, active
learning environments, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional service.
The University Libraries aspire to be partners in the scholarly and creative achievements of students,
faculty, and staff, leaders in the academic library community, and contributors in the University’s efforts
to become nationally known for academic excellence and positive community impacts.
• Diversity: Advocating for the importance and positive impact of diversity in the Libraries staff,
collections, exhibits, services and spaces.
• Equity: Meeting people where they are and working toward equitable policies and practices of
fairness, justice, equal access, and equal opportunity for all people.
• Inclusion: Helping lead the Libraries/TLT to a place where differences are welcome, different
perspectives are respectfully heard and where every individual is valued and feels a sense of
belonging.
This committee will provide a forum for library employees to participate and collaborate in equity,
diversity, and inclusion efforts, including:
Cultivating inclusive learning environments that accelerate self-agency through outreach, programs,
events and services responsive to patron needs.
Co-creating an atmosphere that attracts and retains talent from diverse applicant pools.
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• 2A. Number of events
• 2B. Number of participants
• 2C. Number of new and/or continuing partners
• 2D. Documented course integration and instructor/student feedback
• 2E. Post-event assessment (TBD)
Objective 3.3: Lactation Spaces; support of campus efforts to offer additional facilities
• Action item 3.3.1: Explore possible spaces within the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center
• Partner with Committee on the Status of Women, Campus Facilities Planning and
Libraries Building Operations to identify potential lactation space(s) to be conveniently
accessible to students and others in need of appropriate space.
• Assigned to: Associate Dean Kopecky.
• Timeline: 2021-2022 (Spring 2021, space identified; building plans are in-progress to
determine feasibility/cost /timeline)
• Measure/Performance Indicator(s): New space(s) by 2023
Objective 6.1: Assess acquisition practices for print and e-format collections to identify possible gaps in
resources for the study or representation of diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Action item 6.1.1: Explore GOBI Approval Plan profile; make recommendations while considering
curricular needs, fiscal constraints, and Subject Liaison expertise and input.
• Measures/Performance Indicators: Profile data (pre/post)
• Assigned to: Associate Dean Kopecky Timeline: 2021-2022
Orvis School of Nursing Diversity and Inclusion Operational
Action Plan
Mission Statement
Inspired by its land-grant foundation, the University of Nevada, Reno provides outstanding learning,
discovery and engagement programs that serve the economic social, environmental and cultural needs
of the citizens of Nevada, the nation and the world. The University recognizes and embraces the critical
importance in preparing students for global citizenship and is committed to a culture of excellence,
inclusion and accessibility.
OSN Mission:
Inspired by values of caring, compassion, and inclusion, the Orvis School of Nursing prepares the next
generation of nurse leaders to promote the health and wellbeing of diverse populations in Nevada, the
nation, and the world through excellence in nursing education, discovery, and engagement.
Vision:
Is to educate and graduate the best-prepared, confident leaders for the state, national and global
community; to be a nexus for research and creativity that focuses on vital issues of our time; and to
serve as a catalyst for the betterment of our society
OSN Vision:
To educate and inspire current and future nurses to be providers and change agents improving the
health and wellbeing of our society; to encourage and support research and innovation; to focus on the
challenges of a rapidly changing and culturally diverse healthcare environment.
Strategic Goals
Goal 1: Integrate values of diversity, equity, and inclusion into core processes
Objective 1: Include representation from the OSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee on faculty
and staff searches and Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on faculty searches by the end
of 2021
Action item 1: Establish a formal step in the faculty search committee for the candidates to be
interviewed by the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on their accomplishments and
career goals related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The OSN faculty and staff search committees will
include members from the OSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• Percentage of search committees who met set criterion; formal search procedures will be
shared with 100% of faculty and staff.
Objective 2: Increase research and publication collaboration between faculty and staff with two or three
collaboration initiatives by the end of 2022
Measures/Performance Indicators:
Objective 3: Collaborate with the OSN Faculty Affairs Committee and administrative leadership to add
diversity, equity, and inclusion components to staff and faculty annual performance reviews by the end
of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• Faculty and staff reviews will include a designated section to evaluate individuals' work and
accomplishments related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Objective 4: Revisit School's values to ensure its alignment with a commitment to diversity by the end of
2021
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• The new OSN strategic plan will include a designated section for diversity, equity, and
inclusion
Objective 5: Increase access to interest groups for distant faculty and students by the end of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• number of distant faculty and students present in their interested committees or groups
Objective 6: Integrate diversity into the curriculum throughout the undergraduate and graduate courses
by the end of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• All undergraduate and graduate course syllabi will include an official diversity, equity, and
inclusion statement
Objective 7: Recruit and retain diverse faculty and staff by the end of 2023
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• Increase the percentage of faculty and staff from underrepresented groups by 10%
Goal 2: Ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are evident in education, research,
scholarship, practice, and service activities.
Objective 1: Implement an OSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee by the end of 2021
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• The new OSN bylaws will include the OSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee as a
standing committee. The OSN website will include a designated webpage for diversity,
equity, and inclusion. The committee will have scheduled monthly meetings
Objective 2: Create an annual event focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion for all OSN stakeholders
by the end of 2025
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
Objective 3: Revise all course syllabi to include teaching strategies and pedagogies that are inclusive of
diverse populations by the end of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• All undergraduate and graduate course objectives will reflect the American Association of
Colleges of Nursing's essentials to ensure diversity and inclusivity in teaching delivery
Objective 4: Establish an annual research award honoring those who advance diverse scholarship by the
end of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
Objective 5: Use faculty relationships to expand service and facilitate other learning opportunities that
engage diverse populations in underserved and underrepresented communities by the end of 2021
Action Item 1: Collaborate with DRC and other campus partners to establish Neurodiversity Alliance as
one of the University Presidential initiatives under the Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Objective 6: Apply for diversity federal grants and funding by the end of 2025
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• The OSN's research on diversity, equity, and inclusion will be nationally recognized and
funded
Objective 7: Actively participate in the University of Nevada, Reno Cultural Diversity Summit held
annually
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
Action item 1: Collaborate with the Associate Deans for graduate and undergraduate programs and the
OSN Student Affairs Committee to
Measure(s)/Performance indicators:
• increase the presence of students from the underrepresented groups by 10% at both levels
Objective 2: Assess current initiatives to identify opportunities for recruitment by the end of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• Generate a report with details of the effort for recruiting students, faculty, and staff from
underrepresented groups in OSN annual recruiting events
Objective 3: Create a holistic program that addresses financial and mentorship opportunities to support
recruitment and retention by the end of 2022
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
Objective 4: Increase endowments and grants to support and retain students from underrepresented
populations by financially by 2025
Action item 1: Establish a designated funding source for the OSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Committee and scholarships for the students from underrepresented populations
Measure(s)/Performance Indicators:
• Amount of funding
Action item 2: Educate faculty and students of services provided by the end of 2022
Action item 3: Collaborate with Neurodiversity Alliance and DRC to develop educational events for OSN
faculty and students about neurodiversity awareness and available services and resources available on
campus and in the community
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
• Documented collaborative initiatives and activities between the OSN and DRC, monthly
meeting between the OSN Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and DRC
leadership team
Measure(s)/Performance Indicator(s):
Mission Statements
RSJ: The Reynolds School of Journalism and Center for Advanced Media Studies is an inclusive
community of faculty, students, and staff committed to facing the challenges of truth-seeking,
advancing the media professions, and serving the public good in a complex world.
1. Implement tiered advising structure to increase RSJ resources for recruitment and
retention of diverse students
Objectives:
• Hire Coordinator of Academic Success and GA
• Reorganize RSJ staffing to increase resources and programs related to
recruitment and retention, and to enhance capacity for DEI initiatives for
students and faculty
• Implement RSJ High School Outreach program (in which RSJ profs lecture in HS
classes)
• Develop RSJ-centric programs at Living Learning Community
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• Enrollment data, retention and graduation rates, DEI programs and spending,
recruitment events and digital outreach, HS class visits, LLC programs
2. Revise RSJ promotion and tenure guidelines to include added criteria for engaged
scholarship, to enhance faculty opportunity for research and creative production with
communities of color
Objectives:
• Update P&T criteria to address engaged scholarship
• Incorporate revised criteria into RSJ bylaws
• Provide grants through CAMS and /or the Vierra Fund for Diversity Innovation to
support engaged faculty research and creative production with communities of
color
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• Revised and approved P&T policies, research grants awarded for engaged
scholarship
Objectives:
• Develop workshops in accordance with 2020 faculty survey of training needs
• Develop programs to enhance faculty/staff awareness of student mental health
and resilience issues
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• Number of trainings conducted and faculty/staff participants (including KUNR),
programming developed related to resilience, spending for training and
programming
College of Science Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
Mission Statement
Inspired by its land-grant foundation, the University of Nevada, Reno provides outstanding learning,
discovery, and engagement programs that serve the economic, social, environmental and cultural needs
of the citizens of Nevada, the nation, and the world. The University recognizes and embraces the critical
importance of diversity in preparing students for global citizenship and is committed to a culture of
excellence, inclusion, and accessibility.
Alignment
The College of Science mission aligns with the University’s mission by recognizing the link between
diversity/inclusion and excellence in education/research. The pursuit of excellence in education and
research influences all decision-making and resource allocation at the college level. Expanded diversity
and inclusion are necessary and fundamental components to continuing success in education and
research. Thus, growth in diversity and inclusion is vital to the success of the college, influencing
decision-making and resource allocation.
Strategic Goals
Actions:
a. Establish the DEI Collective, a voluntary meeting of representatives from programs and
departments meeting at least once per semester.
b. Compile an annual list of DEI initiatives ongoing within programs and departments.
c. Compile recommendations at least annually for supporting DEI initiatives within and between
programs and departments.
d. Commit college resources to support DEI initiatives each year.
Measures/Performance Indicators
a. Number of units participating in DEI Collective; number of self-identified representatives
engaged
• Spring 2021 meeting: 7 of 10 units participating; 14 self-identified representatives
• Fall 2021 meeting to be scheduled
b. Number of units able to report substantive activities
• Spring 2021 meeting: 5 of 10 units reporting specific unit-level activity
c. Clarity and breadth of recommended action categories (from easily achievable to aspirational)
• Spring 2021 meeting: recommendations compiled into nine action categories; two acted
upon immediately
d. Specific actions and College resources dedicated to support DEI recommendations and
initiatives
• Spring 2021 to Fall 2021:
i. Discover Science lectures – land acknowledgement incorporated; continued efforts
attract diverse speakers; request that every speaker address DEI in career/life
ii. Celebration of college community during diversity awareness months
• African American Heritage Month (Feb ‘21) and Women’s History Month (Mar ‘21) –
A shared humanity https://www.unr.edu/nevada-today/stories/leaders-in-science
• Hispanic Heritage Month (Sep ’21) – Benuto lab story lined up for release
• Indigenous People’s Day (Oct ’21) – Autumn Harry story lined up for release
Actions:
a. Prioritize recruitment from Nevada high schools serving diverse and underrepresented
populations.
b. Hire qualified and diverse Pack Mentors for ScienceFIT.
c. Maintain College of Science Student Emergency Fund to support students in need.
d. Mandate advising for every student for first three semesters.
Measures/Performance Indicators
a. Number of recruitment visits to and events hosting Nevada students from high schools serving
diverse and underrepresented populations.
• Spring 2021 – hosted 3 Nevada Bound events targeting low-SES high schools as identified by
the southern recruitment office
b. Demographics of college students; demographics of Science Pack Mentors
• Fall 2021
i. 635 first-year students; 29% Hispanic, 45% White (self-identified IPEDS ethnicity)
ii. 113 Pack Mentors; 17% Hispanic, 38% White (self-identified IPEDS ethnicity)
iii. 3146 undergraduate students; 24% Hispanic, 51% White (self-identified IPEDS ethnicity)
c. Amount raised and number of students supported by Student Emergency Fund
• Spring 2021 - $136,750 raised and distributed to 547 students
d. Retention of first-year students
• Fall 19 to Fall 20 – 81%
• Fall 20 to Fall 21 – 81%
Goal Area 3: Faculty Recruitment and Retention
Objective: Support a diverse and excellent faculty body through recruitment and retention strategies.
Action Items:
a. Prioritize efforts to obtain a diverse and qualified applicant pool for every faculty search.
b. Provide a college-specific new faculty orientation and onboarding series each fall.
c. Verify that all early career faculty are being mentored in 5 areas, as specified in the college
mentoring plan: research success; teaching excellence; graduate student and postdoc
supervision; university structure, processes, and navigation; and work/life balance and cultural
comfort.
Measures/Performance Indicators:
a. Demographics of search pools; demographics of finalists; demographics of hires
b. Faculty participation; faculty feedback
c. Faculty retention to promotion and beyond
School of Public Health
Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
UNR Mission Statement: Inspired by its land-grant foundation, the University of Nevada, Reno
provides outstanding learning, discovery, and engagement programs that serve the economic,
social, environmental, and cultural needs of the citizens of Nevada, the nation, and the world.
The University recognizes and embraces the critical importance of diversity in preparing students
for global citizenship and is committed to a culture of excellence, inclusion, and accessibility.
School of Public Health Mission Statement: Develop, disseminate, and apply knowledge to
protect and promote the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The
mission will be accomplished through the following core values:
• Promoting health equity
• Embracing diversity
• Advancing knowledge
• Succeeding through collaboration
• Developing workforce excellence
Alignment: School of Public Health (SPH) mission aligns with the UNR mission in the
development and application of knowledge to serve Nevada populations at different levels
(individual, family, community) to accomplish the outcomes of health and wellbeing.
To accomplish the goals and objectives laid out in this document a ten-member Diversity and
Inclusion Committee will be comprised of representatives from all academic divisions (Public
Health Practice, HAP/SBH, Kinesiology, and Epi/Biostats), CASAT, and the NV Public Health
Training Center, one undergraduate student and three graduate students (on-line and in-person
MPH, and Ph.D.). This committee will work with the UNR Public Health Club to plan and host
events. The DEI committee will have a seat on the SPH Executive Board and report committee
progress regularly. Committee terms will last two years, meet monthly, and host other meetings
as needed. The committee will remain responsible for this plan until a Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion Officer position is filled. Until the appointment of the DEI Officer, the DEI committee
will decide and document committee structure (i.e., committee chair, co-chairs, executive board,
etc.) to fulfill the plan objectives. An Associate Dean for DEI is the ultimate goal
We value human diversity in all its richly complex and multi-faceted forms, whether expressed
through race and ethnicity, culture, political and social views, religious and spiritual beliefs,
language and geographic characteristics, gender expression, gender identity and sexual identity,
1
learning and physical abilities, age, and social or economic classes.
We at the School of Public Health value human diversity in all its richly complex and multi-
faceted forms, whether expressed through race and ethnicity, culture, political and social views,
religious and spiritual beliefs, language and geographic characteristics, gender expression,
gender identity, and sexual identity, learning and physical abilities, age, and social or economic
classes. We respect the value of every member, and everyone is encouraged to share their unique
perspective as an individual, not necessarily as a representative of any category.
This document is intended to be inclusive of everyone associated with the SPH including but not
limited to Divisions, Centers, employee positions, education programs, and student level.
Inclusion in the School of Public Health is the request to participate and contribute to the culture
and development of SPH. Involvement creates a collaborative, supportive, and respectful
environment that in turn increases the participation and contribution of all employees and
students.
Goal Area 1. Learning Environment
Measures:
a. Plan and develop a short diversity and inclusion video to articulate SPH's vision, mission,
and values as well as professional expectations to which students and faculty will be held
(year 1).
i. Video will be both welcoming and instructional to include student’s diverse
experiences, peer and faculty with student experiences.
ii. Annually, screen diversity and inclusion video with every incoming student
cohort during student orientation. This video will also be available to students
through the MPH or Ph.D. student resource page where views will be monitored.
iii. Each student will be required to confirm with his/her advisor that the material
presented in the video has been viewed and understood.
b. Every year provide a department orientation that explicates teaching expectations and
resources for instructional support to all letter of appointment faculty and teaching
assistants two weeks prior to the start of the semester or course being taught.
c. Develop and pilot educational training on inclusive excellence for teaching faculty and
teaching assistants from all SPH divisions and Centers. Training will be developed and
piloted by the end of 2021.
i. Training will cover microaggressions, cultural humility, tough conversations, and
safety.
ii. Confirmation of training completion will be provided and will be part of annual
evaluations (ongoing).
2
iii. Training from other Colleges that include the above topics are acceptable for
SPH.
d. The MPH practicum provides an important opportunity for students to gain real-life
public health experience while serving the needs of the community. SPH will evaluate the
needs of students and communities to ensure students are prepared to engage with
communities in culturally sensitive and meaningful ways.
e. Require a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement as part of the planning/contract for
MPH practicum for all MPH students.
Objective 1: Foster and monitor a school climate that encourages diversity, inclusion, and
critical discourse.
Measures:
a. Continue the annual cross-sectional climate survey for SPH student populations.
b. Foster an active student group that represents the SPH student body. This body will have
a direct line to the SPH executive committee to make recommendations. Currently, the
Public Health Club is an active body at the graduate level. A parallel club at the
undergraduate level is needed. Additionally, these clubs will need support to develop and
sustain a public health outreach and advocacy agenda.
c. Develop a faculty and staff policy or procedure to inform every SPH community member
about the process of responding to a student complaint, (e.g., a student opens about an
issue or a grievance). Including a checklist to be reported to the executive committee
monthly/annually.
e. Within two years, develop a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer position that will be
at least part-time and part of SPH executive leadership.
i. Within 5-years, the DEI Officer position will become an Associate Dean position.
3
Objective 2: Transform SPH into a culturally respectful and sensory landscape to create a
multicultural welcoming physical space.
Measures:
a. In year 1, develop multicultural health visualizations with narrative or audio explanations
(e.g., murals, posters, wall colors, etc.) to be displayed within SPH buildings.
Visualizations will be updated and rotated annually. The PH Club will offer significant
input to reflect the student's perspective.
b. In year 1, display of country and state flags to demonstrate SPH national and
international reach and commitment to working with diverse peoples. This could be a
display that is part of health visualizations (a, above). An effort to include Indigenous
symbols and flags will be a priority.
c. In year 1, translate the tagline “Making Health Happen” into Spanish, Paiute,
Vietnamese, Tagalog, Korean, and diverse Chinese languages to display within SPH
buildings. These language selections will widen depending on student and population
change. Seek out collaborations with the different cultural departments and programs to
include participation from their respective cultures.
Objective 1: The college student population will reflect the diversity of the state and regional
population. All students will be given equitable opportunities to be successful in their academic
endeavors and plan for graduation.
Measures:
4
c. By year 2, work with the SPH development officer to secure funding for scholarships
from donors that prioritize funding for students of color, first-generation, students raised
in poverty, and otherwise historically underserved populations who pursue Public Health
Practice, Social and Behavioral Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health
Administration and Policy, and Kinesiology.
d. Continue providing resources to all students through the online Student Resource center.
Objective 2. Faculty recruits and hires will reflect the diversity of the SPH and University
student population. Faculty will be mentored for retention and promotion across all
demographics and SPH tracks equally.
Measures:
a. In year 1, create a list of traditional and non-traditional channels and events for faculty
recruitment for each division/track (Public Health Practice, Social and Behavioral Health,
Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health Administration and Policy, and Kinesiology). The
search committee chair will use these lists to post open positions.
i. The Search Committee Coordination will include at least one member of the
SPH DEI Committee until such time that it is overseen by the Associate
Dean of DEI to ensure that the makeup of the search committees,
job/position announcements, placement, and hiring practices follow the SPH
commitment to DEI.
ii. All recruitment and retention efforts will include the DEI Committee member
and/or Associate Dean’s input and guidance.
b. In year 1, develop two sets of diversity and inclusion diversity questions, one set for
candidate screening and one set for final candidates. Once developed, these questions will
be submitted to UNR human resources for approval and used for all SPH candidates.
i. This activity will provide more effort in search processes to screen and hire
people who value diversity and have those skills.
c. In the first year, implement a policy that offer letters for each new faculty will designate a
senior faculty member for the new faculty to contact.
d. Within three to five years, develop a formal mentorship program to include any faculty
willing to participate. The goal of the mentorship program is retention and developing a
sense of belonging among faculty.
i. As part of this initiative, mentors will be provided training on how to be a
good mentor and how to mentor for diversity and inclusion.
ii. SPH will identify other mentor programs on campus to adapt and adopt.
5
will increase research and publication production, in turn, will retain new faculty and
foster a sense of belonging.
Measures:
a. Collaborate with faculty in other departments and schools within the University to
increase interdisciplinary research to increase opportunities for students at all levels.
b. Continue to seek out new relationships with local, national, and global health care
institutions and organizations to foster inter-organizational partnerships. An increase in
partnerships with the goal of new placements for student interns and recruitment of
working professionals into the program as students.
c. Increase collaboration with local, national, and global professional public health
organizations through our partner programs, student internships, and other programs.
e. Support the development of programs across the University that center DEI, for example,
an Indigenous Cultural Studies Department, Gender, Race, and Identity, College of
Liberal Arts. Support includes cross-listing courses, developing courses that meet Silver
Core objective 10, and seeking out joint appointment positions.
f. The President’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force (PDEITF) - the Dean-
designated PDEITF for the Academic Units (AU) member will work closely with the
UNR DEI office and the SPH DEI committee and/or the Associate Dean of DEI to ensure
alignment with UNR goals for DEI.
g. By year 3, develop the formalized infrastructure for learning communities (LC). These
peer-led groups of 8-12 members will be topic-based with the goals of building
community, collaboration, and advancing DEI within SPH administration, teaching,
scholarship, and service. All members of SPH will be invited to join topic-based LCs.
i. Development of the LC process will begin in year 2. This includes research
of LC development and best practices.
6
Updates to Action Plan August 31, 2021
Diversity and Inclusion Committee:
• Committee members were recruited including a member from each discipline, a
student from each program, and a staff member.
• Meetings were held during the Spring Semester 2021 beginning February 23,
2021, including March 19, March 23, April 1, April 6, April 27, May 11.
• Meetings resume the week of September 6, 2021.
• Subcommittees
o Multicultural Visualizations/Landscapes
o Outreach: Website
o Ad Hoc: Syllabus Subcommittee to create DEI Statement for syllabi
• Starting in April 2021, the DEI committee will have a seat on the SPH Executive
Board and report committee progress regularly.
o Attended bi-weekly executive board meetings to report progress
• The committee will remain responsible for this plan until:
o a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer position is filled, OR
o Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion position is created and
filled.
7
ACTION ITEM: Create a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement as part of the
planning/contract requirement for MPH practicum for all MPH students.
8
UPDATED PROJECTED TIMELINE:
Year 1:
• Develop multicultural health visualizations with narrative or audio explanation.
• Display of country and state flags to demonstrate SPH national and international reach
and commitment to working with diverse peoples.
• Translate tagline “Making health happen” into Spanish, Paiute, Vietnamese, Tagalog,
Korean, and diverse Chinese languages and display within SPH buildings.
• Add to the SPH website “The SPH demonstrates its commitment to diversity by” section.
• Gather a list of traditional and non-traditional channels and events for faculty recruitment
for each division/track (Public Health Practice, Social and Behavioral Health,
Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health Administration and Policy, and Kinesiology) to use
as the first level of recruitment by search committees.
• The subcommittee of the DEI Committee will develop two sets of diversity and inclusion
diversity questions, one set for candidate screening and one set for final candidates, for
use by all search committees.
• Annual Climate Survey
Year 2:
• Develop a strategic plan to locate and obtain scholarship funding for specific groups of
students.
• Create a subcommittee to fully develop the mentoring program, establish the goals and
desired outcomes.
• Development of the Learning Communities (LC) process includes research of LC
development and best practices.
• Annual Climate Survey
• Review Welcoming Video for updates
• Develop a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer position will be at least part-time and
part of SPH executive leadership
Year 3:
• Develop the formalized infrastructure for learning communities
• Apply to become a Hispanic Service Health professions school (HSHPS)
• Annual climate survey
• Review Welcoming Video for updates
Within 5-years, the DEI Officer position will become an Associate Dean position.
9
VPAF Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
Division Overview
Administration and Finance (VPAF) encompasses a wide variety of support functions and essential
operations at the university, including Business and Finance, Planning/Budget and Analysis, Human
Resources, Facilities Services, Real Estate and University Police Services.
Inclusive excellence for VPAF is dependent on how well it values, engages and includes the
rich diversity of students, staff, faculty, volunteers, community, and alumni constituents.
The following goals are established to make and measure progress on attributes that demonstrate the
value, engagement and inclusion of the VPAF team members and the interactions with campus and
community constituents.
Goal 1: Create a committee to help the division plan and measure/monitor Diversity,
Equity and Inclusion.
Objective #1.3– Draft and work with leadership to finalize a plan by September 1, 2021.
Objective #1.4– Create goals and measure progress on goals through May 2022
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• List of committee members; meeting notes in unr.box.edu folders; plan submitted to D & I Office;
plan contents and progress tracked in meeting notes.
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• VPAF Communication Model that is shared by the VP with all employees; number of listening
sessions and/or an anonymous survey collection tool; Get Involved” section on the HR website
communicated to VPAF employees and related marketing data (number of views, etc.)
Goal 3: Take steps to build a culture of inclusive excellence in the work environment
utilizing feedback from the climate survey. When faculty and staff feel included, the
University is a place where students want to be.
Objective 3.1 – Define the elements of an inclusive employment environment for University of
Nevada, Reno by using focus groups within VPAF by December 2021.
Objective 3.2 – Develop reference materials that educate employees on how to advance as
Classified staff and Administrative Faculty by December 2021.
Objective 3.3 – Identify general responsibilities and expectations of supervisors in creating and
maintaining an inclusive work environment by May 2022.
Objective 3.4 – Create a plan for supervisory training and support materials that includes
actionable behaviors in creating an inclusive environment and improves consistency in the
experience of employee that would be offered in the future by May 2022.
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• VPAF inclusive employment environment definition made public; number of knowledge base
articles on website; written plan shared
Police Services Diversity and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
Mission Statement
To support the Nevada System of Higher Education through proactive community
involvement, service, protection and trust.
Strategic Goals
Goal 1: Increase positive community exposure to University Police Officers
through the development and implementation of at least 3 new community
activities and/or social media events by June 2022.
Objective 1: Develop a committee to plan and implement community and social media
engagement by October 1st.
Action Item 1: Committee will be formed by October 2021.
Action Item 2: Committee will meet bi-weekly to plan 2 months of community engagement.
Target 1: Implement a “[joke]” social media post each week for 6 weeks.
Target 2: Organize an officer scavenger hunt related to Officer’s personal knowledge
about the University.
Target 3: Drop-in workout classes with police chief and officers once a month.
Advertised on social media.
Target 4: Create a quarterly newsletter or social media post that highlights at least two
Officers through a personal bio.
Action Item 3: Committee will evaluate successes and failures.
Action Item 4: Highlight community engagement in public safety and protection and
community involvement (M.S.)
Measures/Performance Indicators
• List of committee members submitted to Dr. Gordon Mora; number of events; number of
social media posts shared; newsletter circulated
•
Goal 2: Focus on improving the work environment for women in Police Services
by reviewing, evaluating, and clearly communicating maternity policies and
FMLA, during and post pregnancy and/or adoption or placement.
Objective 1: Review current policy, incorporate state requirements, and solicit input from HR
and police department members on what should be changed (specifically including when an
officer should be pulled from full duty and how often employees should be given a lactation
break).
Actions:
• Form committee by September 2021
• Meet with HR in October 2021
• Solicit input from department by October 31, 2021
Objective 2: Create and present a new maternity and family leave policy to command staff by
11/01/2021.
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• Completing a policy review and sharing research in Nevada box; Presentation to
command staff; post policy for entire department
Goal 3: Create opportunities for civilian staff to be integrated with sworn officers
as a single community.
Objective 1: Create a committee of civilian staff and sworn officers to meet and discuss issues
between the two groups and foster integration.
Action Item1: Identify committee members and establish meeting date by 1 November.
Objective 2: Committee will meet quarterly to discuss upcoming trainings/ events, and plan for
civilian staff to attend/ participate. First meeting will take place within the Fall 2021 semester.
Action Item 2: Encourage members of civilian staff to go on a ride along with sworn
officers for patrol and court runs.
Action Item 3: Sworn officers go on a ride along with civilian staff to understand their role
and duties in department.
Objective 3: Establish standard procedure for alternating staff to keep front office open, or for
duty officer to take station calls so front office can be closed for training/ events. Procedure will
be implemented by January of 2022.
Measures/Performance Indicators
• List of civilian committee members shared; meeting notes shared in NevadaBox; number
of trainings; number of ride alongs; procedures established and shared.
Marketing and Communications Update on Efforts on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
September 2021
Objective 1: The Division will provide clear Diversity and Inclusion Key Terms and Definitions for all Student
Services DEI initiatives, programs, etc. by February 2021.
Action Steps:
• By December 2021, 75% of faculty and staff within Student Services will be able to locate the key
terms and definitions and have integrated them into their work.
• By June 2022, 90% of faculty and staff within Student Services will be able to locate the key terms
and definitions and have integrated them into their work.
• By February of each subsequent year, conduct an annual review of the key terms and definitions
to ensure they remain aligned with NWCCU and national organizations.
Objective 2: Each Department/Unit will develop individual DEI strategic plans by the end of Spring 2021.
Action Steps:
• By Fall 2021, departments/units will directly connect their DEI plans to the Goals and Objectives
contained in the Division DEI plan.
• By end of Spring 2022, departments/units will report on their progress toward incorporating into
their plans the identification of resources allocated and/or needed to support developed goals and
partnerships.
• By end of Spring 2022, departments/units plans will contain short and long-term goals. Progress
toward short-term goals will be reported back by the end of Fall 2021. Progress toward long term
goals will be reported back by end of Spring 2022.
Objective 3: Establish a Student Services Diversity Committee (SSDC) with representation from each
department.
Action Steps:
• By end of Spring 2021, Student Services will form the Student Services Diversity Committee (SSDC).
The SSDC will be responsible for compiling yearly academic year-end reports that include goals,
accomplishments, and data concerning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts throughout Student
Services.
• By end of Summer 2021, the Student Services Diversity Committee will develop a Diversity
professional development series that will be implemented in Fall 2021. This series will achieve a
participation rate of 65% throughout the Division over the course of the academic year and will
include a participant evaluation completion process.
Objective 4: The Division will begin to advance culturally appropriate and sensitive assessment methods that
are socially just and utilize anti-racist data and student-centric survey methods.
Action Steps:
• By end of Spring 2021, Persistence Research will develop a professional development workshop
series that identifies culturally appropriate and sensitive assessment practices including examples
of a wide variety of culturally appropriate and sensitive assessments, utilizing anti-racist data and
student-centric survey methods.
• By Fall 2021, Persistence Research will develop a rubric or scorecard to assess the level of
culturally appropriate and sensitive assessment plans developed by each department.
• By Spring 2022, 75% of department/unit assessment plans will incorporate statements identifying
how they are using culturally appropriate and sensitive assessment methods.
Objective 5: Departments/Units in Student Services will collaborate with each other and external partners to
embrace a wider definition of diversity that discourages systemic discrimination and ableism, and
encourages equity and inclusion.
Action Steps:
• Beginning in Summer 2020, department/units will conduct bi-annual reviews of policies,
procedures, and accessibility practices that have served to perpetuate systemic bias and create
systemic barriers for student success
• By end of Fall 2020, departments/units will have identified the steps they are taking to end the
systemic bias in the policies, procedures, and practices within their areas.
• By Summer 2021 (and each Summer thereafter), each Student Services department/unit will
develop three goals that demonstrate and submit their collaboration efforts across Student
Services or externally that illustrates the efforts it is taking to broaden equity and inclusion efforts
and discourage systemic discrimination.
• By end of Fall 2021, departments/units will report on the progress they’ve made regarding their
systemic bias elimination efforts.
Objective 6: Each member of the Division will participate in a workshop series focused on Universal Design
for Learning Practices.
Action Steps:
• By May 2021, the Disability Resources Center (DRC) will develop a Universal Design for Learning
Practices Series.
• By July 2021, 40% of the Division will have participated in the Universal Design for Learning Series.
• By December 2021, 75% of the Division will have participated in the Universal for Design Learning
Series.
• By July 2022, 100% of the Division will have participated in the Universal Design for Learning
Series.
Objective 1: Recruit and enroll underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students utilizing
partnerships, collaborations, and support for existing pathway programs.
Action Steps:
• By Summer 2021, Student Services will organize a working group to review existing University
pathway programs and implement best practices from across the nation.
• By Fall 2021, Enrollment Services and Records will determine a set of priorities that focus on the
development of data-informed effective recruitment strategies in line with institutional efforts for
minoritized populations.
• By Spring 2022, Enrollment Services will conduct a review of all recruitment activities and assign a
specific target for success and utilize outcomes-oriented metrics to quantitatively define success.
• By Summer 2022, Enrollment Services in conjunction with other Student Services
departments/units will develop activities that strengthen the University’s link with ethnically
diverse and rural school districts, familiarize high-school students with the University’s
opportunities and resources through on-campus programs.
• By 2023, increase enrollment of underrepresented populations to 50% of total undergraduate
student enrollment.
Objective 2: Develop action plans to address systemic barriers to the recruitment and retention of
prospective and/or current students.
Action Steps:
• By Fall 2021, departments/units will develop specific action plans contained in their DEI strategic
plans that address systemic barriers in their areas to the recruitment and retention of prospective
and/or current students.
• By end of Spring 2022, departments/units plans will summarize and report out on the short and
long-term goals contained in their action plans.
• By Summer 2022, progress toward short-term goals will be reported back.
• By Fall 2022, progress toward long term goals will be reported back.
Objective 3: Develop and assess engagement and retention initiatives that close the opportunity gap for
minoritized, non-represented, and underrepresented campus student populations.
Action Steps:
• By Summer 2021, Student Services will conduct an analysis of the number and types of programs
and initiatives dedicated to supporting the recruitment and retention of minoritized, non-
represented, and underrepresented student populations.
• By Summer 2021, Student Services in conjunction with ASUN will design and conduct a Housing
and Food Insecurity survey that will be distributed to all students.
• By Fall 2021, Student Services will develop student affinity programs and spaces for groups that
have low retention rates in order to increase sense of belonging and provide additional resources
and support to these students. The retention rates of students participating in these programs and
spaces would be tracked.
• By Summer 2022, Student Services will document and disseminate quantitative and qualitative
evidence of the impact of these initiatives.
Objective 5: Develop and assess students’ knowledge and skills around ethical decision-making, empathy,
individual leadership, and personal accountability.
Action Steps:
• By Spring 2022, departments/units in conjunction with Persistence Research will develop specific
overall learning outcomes that include knowledge and skills around ethical decision-making,
empathy, individual leadership, and personal accountability.
• By Spring 2022, departments/units holding events and programs that facilitate students’
increased knowledge and skills around ethical decision making, empathy, individual leadership, or
personal accountability will develop specific learning outcomes for each event and program.
Goal Area 3 – Faculty/Staff Recruitment and Retention
Objective 1: Create a Recruitment and Retention Practices Committee to formulate best practices, resources
and guidelines for the recruitment and onboarding of diverse faculty and staff.
Action Steps:
• By the end of January 2021, Student Services will identify individuals across the division to serve on
the Recruitment and Onboarding Practices Committee that meets quarterly.
• By Summer 2021, the Recruitment and Onboarding Practices Committee will have identified best
practices and resources for individual functional areas and across the division related to the
recruitment and onboarding of diverse faculty and staff.
• By Spring 2022, the Recruitment and Onboarding Practices Committee will share a final document
to Student Services personnel describing expectations and guidelines for the recruitment and
onboarding of diverse faculty and staff.
• By Summer 2022, the Recruitment and Onboarding Practices Committee will have developed a
comprehensive assessment of the recruitment and onboarding experiences of candidates for
positions (Classified and Administrative Faculty) across the Division.
Objective 2: Annual Evaluations will utilize the ACPA/NASPA Competency Areas of Social Justice and
Inclusion to help Student Services staff develop competencies in these two areas and will include a section
documenting professional development including participating in sponsored Division wide DEI trainings
and/or certifications.
Action Steps:
• By Summer 2021, Student Services will use baseline indicators of the Social Justice and Inclusion
competencies to help staff member’s asses their level of knowledge, awareness, and skills.
• By Spring 2022, Student Services departments/units will establish yearly Social Justice and
Inclusion goals for each staff member.
• By Spring 2022, departments/units will develop competency markers for individual staff that will
be incorporated into the annual evaluation process.
Objective 3: Develop a mentorship program that focuses on building relationships and connecting new and
existing employees across diverse staff groups.
Action Steps:
• By Spring 2021, a working group will develop the mentorship program.
• By Summer 2021, Student Services will launch the mentorship program.
• By Summer 2022, the mentorship program will utilize participation data and the evaluation of
individual commitment through performance evaluation acknowledgement.
Objective 4: Develop a system to assess faculty and staff experiences and determine changes needed to
improve access and work culture.
Action Steps:
• By end of Summer 2021, Student Services will organize a working group to review existing
Divisional efforts for assessing work culture/climate and develop a new Division-wide system to be
implemented by Spring 2022.
• By mid-Fall 2021, the working group in conjunction with Human Resources will develop a survey
tool used across the Division. By beginning of Spring 2022, each department/unit director will
have trained in the use of the tool and will begin the implementation of the periodic work
culture/climate system.
• By Summer 2022, Student Services will develop an exit interview process for outgoing staff to
learn more about their experiences and determine potential additional changes needed to
improve access and work culture.
University Libraries Diversity and Inclusion AY22
Operational Action Plan
University Libraries Mission & Vision
In support of the University mission to advance teaching, research, student learning, and community
engagement, the University Libraries embrace intellectual inquiry and innovation, nurture the
production of new knowledge, and foster excellence in education through scholarly resources, active
learning environments, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional service.
The University Libraries aspire to be partners in the scholarly and creative achievements of students,
faculty, and staff, leaders in the academic library community, and contributors in the University’s efforts
to become nationally known for academic excellence and positive community impacts.
• Diversity: Advocating for the importance and positive impact of diversity in the Libraries staff,
collections, exhibits, services and spaces.
• Equity: Meeting people where they are and working toward equitable policies and practices of
fairness, justice, equal access, and equal opportunity for all people.
• Inclusion: Helping lead the Libraries to a place where differences are welcome, different
perspectives are respectfully heard and where every individual is valued and feels a sense of
belonging.
This committee provides a forum for library employees to participate and collaborate in equity,
diversity, and inclusion efforts, including:
AY21 Accomplishments
Goal area 1 – Strategic Plan for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
• Initial draft of a detailed EDI Strategic Plan was submitted to Libraries Dean Ray,
reflecting a long-term vision and actionable goals in support of Libraries, campus and
organizational priorities. Revised final plan to be completed by May 2022 based on the new
direction and guidance of Dean Cardwell.
Goal area 2.2 – Programming
• Continued to use Wikipedia edit-a-thons to expand collective activities designed to
address gender and racial biases while facilitating the creation of content by
underrepresented groups. April 21, 2021 UNR JEDI Wikipedia Edit-A-Thon partnered with
faculty and graduate students in the Department of Ecology (new collaboration); focus was
on pages for women scientists and scientists of color. Participants: 31; Edited Articles: 12:
Content added: 3,000+ words; 43 citations.
Goal area 3 - Spaces and Places
• Conducted IRB-sanctioned research on Library Spaces and First-Generation Students
through Spring 2021 survey and April-July focused interviews. Analysis is underway to
determine if students feel culturally welcomed and that they belong within the physical
spaces of the University Libraries. AY22 Goal is to identify actionable and measurable
recommendations to improve Library Spaces. AY23 publication goal.
• Identified potential space within the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center for a student-
use Lactation Quiet Room, in partnership with Committee on the Status of Women,
Campus Facilities Planning and Libraries Building Operations. Plans were submitted to
campus administration; on-hold pending funding.
Goal Area 5 – Library Collections
• Partnered with major book vendor (GOBI) to identify Diversity Award book categories
that would strengthen the collection in areas of equity, diversity and social justice.
Measures/Performance Indicators:
• 2A. Number of events
• 2B. Number of participants
• 2C. Number of new and/or continuing partners
• 2D. Documented course integration and instructor/student feedback
• 2E. Post-event assessment (TBD)
Objective 3.3: Lactation and Quiet Spaces; support of campus efforts to offer additional
facilities
• Action item 3.3.1: Identified potential space within the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center;
await funding to move forward.
• Partner with Committee on the Status of Women, Campus Facilities Planning and
Libraries Building Operations. The identified space will be conveniently accessible to
students and others in need of appropriate space for lactation and other private needs.
• Assigned to: Associate Dean Kopecky.
• Timeline: AY22
Measure/Performance Indicator(s): New space(s) by 2023
Objective 4.2: Retain employees from underrepresented groups after the hiring process.
• Assigned to: Mary Martini (HR Liaison); Heather Damonte (Assistant to the Dean).
• Timeline: AY22 retention report.
Future Plans
Spaces and Places: Encourage Libraries units to develop EDI statements specific to their unit.
Research Agenda: Identify literature and research gaps regarding academic libraries’ equity and
inclusion. Provide training and resources on ethical, equitable, and inclusive research practices; share
resources with campus and professional communities.
#
Office of Information Technology
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Operational Action Plan
September 2021
The Office of Information Technology (OIT) recognizes that we are part of a world of great
diversity – gender, race, culture, age, sexual orientation, abilities, skills, experience, values, and
aspirations. We are committed to being an inclusive organization where all employees are
empowered, valued, respected, and engaged. For this purpose, we will:
These commitments enable us to reach our full potential, fueling innovation and connection with
our employees, the University, and communities we serve.
Goal Area 1: Use inclusive language, imagery, and voices in all communications for
OIT including emails, website materials, printed materials, social media, and
presentations.
• Review current OIT and University Core Theme Alignment. Rewrite or modify to include
DEI language and goals.
• Review OIT Strategic Directions. Rewrite or modify to include DEI language and goals.
• Send recommendations to OIT Directors group.
• Send changes to modify the website and internal documents to the Communications
Specialist once approved. Distribute to all OIT division employees.
Objective 2: Encourage all members of the OIT division to think in a more empathetic way that ties DEI
into our everyday processes.
Action steps:
• A working group will distribute a list of resources that covers what to look for in content
related to DEI. The working group will be available as an editing team via a listserv for
content creators to check for DEI as part of the editing process for all new materials as
requested (perform a DEI check similar to a grammar check on all emails,
communications, etc.).
• Departments will check their existing materials for DEI – website, publications, emails,
guides, etc. and make changes where necessary as they come across any issues.
Goal Area 2: Expand DEI internal education and resources for OIT division
employees.
Objective 1: Create a platform to share DEI information with OIT.
Action steps:
• The OIT DEI TF will survey OIT division employees to determine an appropriate platform
on which to share information within the division.
• Share and post resources on a regular basis (every month) to create a reference and
resource library that includes items like books and articles related to DEI. All OIT division
employees are welcome to post to this platform, but the final responsibility of posting at
least one resource will rotate monthly among OIT DEI TF members.
• Include DEI information and events in the OIT newsletter by looking at the University's
calendar and looking at local event calendars for DEI events to share. The
Communications Specialist for OIT will put these items into the newsletter. The DEI TF
committee members are encouraged to find and share resources as suggestions of what
to include.
• Find guest speakers who can speak to technology and diversity at least twice a year. Host
these events and open them to all distributed IT employees. DEI TF committee members
will all work to find and suggest speakers to come and give these presentations. The
Communications Specialist will organize the presentation event.
• Create open discussions around DEI topics for the OIT division. DEI TF committee
members will all work to find and suggest speakers, resources, and topics as discussion
points. The Communications Specialist will organize the materials to distribute and will
organize the meeting for OIT division employees to discuss.
Objective 3: Encourage DEI training for OIT division employees.
Action steps:
A working group will:
• Seek out current University training resources through HR. The working group will share
the resources with OIT leadership (directors and managers) to facilitate leadership’s
awareness and use of these resources with OIT division employees.
• Educate the OIT division about digital accessibility to make people aware of accessibility
issues, the importance of inclusivity, and how to make sure their work is accessible
through workshops and Tech Talks.
• Find outside community resources and share with the OIT division employees.
Goal Area 3: Expand diversity in hiring student workers, staff, and faculty.
Objective 1: Create a mentorship program that encourages OIT division employees to act as mentors to
help young people in the community to get them acquainted with IT. This program should focus on helping
young people who may not otherwise consider IT as a career path.
Action steps:
• The OIT DEI TF committee will review the Placement Goals Summary yearly to use it as a
tool to inform hiring decisions, expand hiring pools, and inform where to post job
opportunities.
• Review the places that jobs are posted to help diversify the pool of applicants keeping in
mind the Placement Goals Summary for the year.
• The search coordinator will contact the working group when a new search is coming up.
The working group will develop a list of places to post job opportunities that will
encourage or inform a wider audience of applicants.
• When working with applicants during the interview process, the search committee
coordinator will invite a member of the working group to contact the applicants
regarding DEI. The member of the working group can share the Diversity Committees and
Affinity Groups webpage, and other diversity groups within the Reno/Tahoe area, with
the applicants and encourage them to learn about those and get involved. This is
intended to make the applicant feel included and know they have a place, a voice, and
respect here at the University. The working group member will try to arrange meetings
between the applicants and representatives from those groups if interested.
1
UNR Med Strategic Plan Table for Faculty Diversity and Inclusion
Honor those at UNR Med who EDEI Awards for faculty/staff and
reflect and promote diversity and learners
inclusion
AAMC pilot of Foundation FPIE assessments will lead to action Number of workshops given and
Principles of Inclusive plans for participating outcomes on goals generated in
Excellence (FPIE) initiative units/departments workshops
Diversity initiatives will be CDI meets regularly, with ongoing Meetings at least 6 (usually 12) times a
integrated under the development and review of year
umbrella of the Council on initiatives and data
Diversity Initiatives to
increase effectiveness
Assess needs and respond ODI and the Office of Faculty (OF) Joy in Work Study is being carried out in
to opportunities to will conduct regular assessments of OF in 2020 to help understand reasons
strengthen the retention reasons that maintain retention of for retention. Themes will be identified
of diverse faculty current faculty from MBDGs, and and used in culture planning to improve
develop programming to strengthen retention.
those reasons
May do stay interviews in the future
ODI and OF/HR will conduct faculty 100% of faculty who leave UNR Med will
exit interviews to identify barriers be offered an exit survey and interview
around faculty retention and develop
initiatives to address those barriers
ODI will communicate diversity 100% of new faculty and staff receive
resources and initiatives during info/training during onboarding
faculty and staff onboarding and
orientation sessions
Provide regular Diversity Dialogues DD held monthly and attendance
opportunities for faculty, monitored
staff, and students to
discuss issues related to
diversity and inclusion at
UNR med and in health
care
Provide opportunities for Affinity groups, like GWIMS, LMSA, Affinity groups remain active, with at
faculty and students from APAMSA, MPSA, Rural SIG, Women least one meeting per semester
MBDGs to connect in Medicine
Faculty Pipelines
Objective Activity Metric
Create external pipelines OPR will contact these prospective Number of outreach contacts
and partnerships to attract applicants early in the completion of
and recruit faculty from their programs to discuss the
MBDGs benefits of careers in academic
medicine and match their interests
with available opportunities at UNR
Med
Using Workforce Diversity Number of visits with residents from
Champions (WDCs) develop HBCUs/HSIs/MSIs
relationships (and eventually
pipelines) with Historically Black Number of applicants from these
Colleges and Universities (HBCU), institutions
Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs)
and Minority Serving Institutions
(MSIs) with residency and graduate
programs
Educationally Create opportunities for students to OPR
underserved/rural shadow and work in rural fields to
pipelines and incentives encourage careers in rural medicine
Continue to advance The IBRG workgroup will continue to UNR Med students, faculty, staff take
research on implicit bias refine the Implicit Relational Assessment the IRAP
through the work of the Procedure (IRAP)
Implicit Bias Research The IBRG workgroup will continue to Content woven into the curriculum
Program (IBRG) workgroup develop curricular content on identifying and evaluated
and managing implicit bias, currently
being piloted with UME students
The IBRG workgroup will assess the Increased diversity of applicants,
effectiveness of training on implicit bias interviews, and hires after the training
for search committees
The IBRG workgroup is working with Increased diversity of applicants,
Admissions and Student Affairs at UNR interviews, and offers after the training
Med and in the PA Program, as well as
with GME, to deliver and assess training
for admissions committees on implicit
bias