Diversity and Inclusion

Mission Statement
Oklahoma Panhandle State University is an institution built upon dedication to oneself and community; as such, the University embraces diversity among faculty, staff, students, and community members and acknowledges our duty to create an environment of inclusivity, acceptance, and growth. The Council for Diversity and Inclusivity serves individuals and groups of all identities and intersections, including but not limited to race, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, and experiences. This council acknowledges that a culture of diversity and inclusivity improves the lives of all community members, which in turn prepares community members for personal and professional success in the global society. Oklahoma Panhandle State University is committed to working with people of these various identities to address current and future challenges presented in our world to create a culture of compassion and respect.
Action Plan
As an institution, the University has outlined the following action steps to create equity across this campus:
- Improve accessibility of support, resources, and mentorship to students and community members of all identities.
- Remove barriers to success that have historically been either implicit or explicit. This includes, but is not limited to, access to tutoring, education, mental health resources, financial aid, and academic advising.
- Amplify marginalized voices and serve as instruments of change within this university on behalf of the community and students represented.
- Advocate for systemic change in policy, in practice, and in the lived experiences of those affiliated with Oklahoma Panhandle State University.
- Provide training and education to faculty, staff, students, and community members regarding diversity and the experiences of those with marginalized identities.
- Serve as a proud, visible ally for those who experience oppression or marginalization.
- Commit to ongoing learning as council members in order to serve most effectively as allies.
- Improve accessibility of support, resources, and mentorship to students and community members of all identities.
- Remove barriers to success that have historically been either implicit or explicit. This includes, but is not limited to, access to tutoring, education, mental health resources, financial aid, and academic advising.
- Amplify marginalized voices and serve as instruments of change within this university on behalf of the community and students represented.
- Advocate for systemic change in policy, in practice, and in the lived experiences of those affiliated with Oklahoma Panhandle State University.
- Provide training and education to faculty, staff, students, and community members regarding diversity and the experiences of those with marginalized identities.
- Serve as a proud, visible ally for those who experience oppression or marginalization.
- Commit to ongoing learning as council members in order to serve most effectively as allies.
Contact
-
Lewis, CharlaTitle: Assistant Professor / Director of Instumental Music / Department Chair Music EducationOffice: HS 114Phone: 580.349.1483
Related Links
- Academic Resource Center
- Hispanic Student Services
- Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education | Coursera
- LGBT History Month
- OPSU Affirmative Action Plan (PDF)
- Our Changeable Times: Thinking through recruitment, retention and everything else
- Pursuing Racial Justice
- Black / African-American Libguides