Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles: Fostering Equity & Valuing Differences – September 25, 2020
September 25, 2020
Colleagues,
Part of our mission is to provide access to diverse learning experiences, educational content, and learning spaces that allow our students to explore different ideals and opinions, and to have a voice that is valued in our college community. As a vital part of their learning and college experience, we are committed to helping students understand the world around them through diverse programming like Latin American Heritage Month, Constitution Day, Voter info sessions, LGBTQ+ programming, support groups, myriad club offerings, mental health support, and so much more. These classroom, co- and extra-curricular activities enrich the lives and learning experiences of all members of our college community.
It is especially important that we embed our values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in and beyond the classroom as we plan events for students and our community and go about our daily work. Our commitment to creating a just society for all includes giving voice to our societal ideals and objectives. Accordingly, I share this statement with you from SUNY community college presidents this week.
“Presidents of SUNY community colleges believe the indictments handed down in the Breonna Taylor case do not demonstrate justice. We urge our communities to be a collective voice, diligent in addressing acute and systemic injustice.
We commit to make lasting change for the future.”
At every touchpoint in the student academic journey, we must foster an atmosphere of equity and inclusion and a culture that values our differences, ideas, and voice. As we continue to deal with racial inequity and social unrest, please consider contacting Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Rinardo Reddick to share ideas, or for suggestions, on how to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into activities and programs, classroom instruction, meetings, etc. Further information is on our website.
Thank you for creating opportunities to collaborate, share ideas, learn about and respect all members of our community regardless of their individual characteristics or perspectives.
Dr. Belinda S. Miles
President