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Climate, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Steering Committee

  • Mission Statement/Purpose
    • This permanent committee is responsible for monitoring the climate of the Department of Chemistry. Actions to monitor the climate may include initiating surveys, sponsoring town halls, hosting visiting experts, etc. Based on these findings the committee may recommend actions and/or policies to the Chair and appropriate governance committees. 
    • The committee also verifies that the Department is achieving its goals of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Functions/Tasks
    • Collect and organize data relevant to the department climate and its progress in achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.
    • Complete and Distribute the L&S Annual Diversity Report”
  • Meeting Frequency
    • This permanent committee is expected to meet monthly during the academic year.
  • Required Membership
    • Co-Chairs comprise one tenured faculty and one staff
    • One administrative staff
    • An HR representative
    • Two students (nominated by the GSFLC)
    • Department Chair appoints the co-chairs and other members to the committee.
  • Open Meeting Policy 
    • All meetings are open except for discussion of confidential matters
  • Ideal Size
    • 8-10 members
  • Oversight Committee/Body
    • Executive Committee and Leadership Council
  • Records
    • The agenda will be posted 24 hours in advance and will comprise open and closed business
    • Minutes of the meeting will be posted within one week (closed minutes available to committee members only)
  • Governance
    • The team will make recommendations for action to the Leadership Council.  The Leadership Council can choose to formulate proposals for a vote by the Executive Committee.
  • Annual Charge
    • Reorganize the subcommittees to minimize redundancy
    • Establish expectations that subcommittees must clear all proposals and changes in policy through the Steering Committee
    • Establish a long-term funding basis for the Bridge and other related programs
    • Design a sustainable seminar and outreach program
  • Interdependencies 
    • The committee works with the GSFLC to conduct the annual climate survey, works with other committees to create the annual L&S Diversity Report
    • Coordinate activities with Women In Chemistry, Queer in Chemistry, NOBCChE, and other student groups
    • Graduate Admissions and Faculty Recruiting committees
    • L&S Diversity Committee.
  • Committee Type
    • Chair