University's Current Status and Future Actions: Summary Regarding the University's Promise to Embrace Diversity for All
Syracuse University has announced a significant change in its approach to diversity and inclusion, with the closure of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the formation of a new People and Culture unit within the Office of Human Resources.
The decision, made by university leaders, follows a comprehensive review led by Vice President Mary Grace Almandrez and her team. The review involved engaging with over 300 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents and families for feedback, with the aim of ensuring full compliance with federal law, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The new People and Culture unit will primarily focus on faculty and staff development, employee retention, engagement, and professional development. The team aims to strengthen community-building efforts on campus by working closely with partners like Human Resources and Academic Affairs to advance strategic priorities in these areas.
In addition to the People and Culture unit, the University's Student Experience Division is expanding its efforts to foster community among students and promote meaningful engagement across differences, backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. The Division's Intercultural Collective is part of these expanded efforts, aiming to create a welcoming campus for all students.
The University's leadership, including Chancellor Kent Syverud, Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost Lois Agnew, Vice Chancellor J. Michael Haynie, Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves, Vice President for People and Culture Mary Grace Almandrez, and Senior Vice President for Human Resources Andrew Gordon, are committed to ensuring a welcoming campus for all members of the community.
Faculty and staff can expect more information about upcoming initiatives, programming, and other opportunities to engage. Students are encouraged to stay informed about these opportunities by downloading the OrangeNow app and visiting the University's event calendar and Student Experience website.
The University's leadership is working towards full compliance with federal law, ensuring that all members of the Syracuse University community feel respected, supported, and valued. Creating a welcoming campus at Syracuse University is a shared commitment among students, faculty, and staff. The new People and Culture unit and the expanded efforts of the Student Experience Division are steps towards achieving this goal.
The new People and Culture unit at Syracuse University, a part of the Office of Human Resources, will largely emphasize faculty and staff development, including professional growth and community building, thus aligning with the lifestyle goals of its members. Simultaneously, the University's Student Experience Division, through its Intercultural Collective, is expanding education and self-development initiatives for students to promote a wider understanding and appreciation of diverse backgrounds and experiences, fostering a more inclusive campus environment.
