University wants local input given
Residents of Greencastle are invited to share their insights, concerns and/or observations regarding the receptivity of the DePauw community towards people of color.
As part of its work, DePauw University's Campus Climate Task Force for Faculty, Staff and Students of Color (CCTF) has compiled a Web site where people can anonymously share their insights and experiences -- positive or negative.
The survey can be found at: http://www.depauw. edu/univ/cctf/anony mous.asp.
"It is important that we study where the University has succeeded in the past as well as how DePauw can make new steps forward," said Denise H. Hayes, Ph.D., associate dean of students and director of counseling and health services and task force chair, as her group began its work in August. "This type of change requires developing an image of what increasing diversity means for DePauw and working to determine who, what, where and how we can continue with our impetus."
President Robert G. Bottoms created the CCTF to review the progress of diversity initiatives and examine areas where work is still needed. The task is composed of faculty, staff and students. CCTF is using four methods of gathering information to obtain feedback on issues of inclusion and marginalization.
DePauw students completed an on-line survey addressing various issues related to campus climate. Students, faculty and staff members are participating in focus groups facilitated by external consultants to provide anonymity of responses. DePauw alumni, former employees and students who withdrew from DePauw prior to graduation will be contacted to participate in a survey that provides them an opportunity to share their experiences about DePauw's community. The final method of soliciting information about DePauw's environment -- the online survey referenced above -- is available to anyone.
Findings from the surveys and focus groups will inform recommendations the CCTF will make to Dr. Bottoms in early spring. For more information on the task force, visit http://www.depauw.edu/univ/cctf/index.asp.