8 LIFE UNIVERSITY 2040 STRATEGIC PLAN Life University Diversity Statement A diversity statement plays a pivotal role for Life University by publicly affirming a commitment to diversity and inclusion. It serves as a guiding principle, setting the tone for how Life University approaches diversity, equity and inclusion. Additionally, it acts as a powerful tool for attracting diverse talent, holding the University accountable for progress and fostering effective communication with stakeholders. To that end, the creation of a diversity statement was crucial for this domain. The Office for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI) spearheaded the development of an institutional diversity statement by convening a dedicated committee. Thier proposed statement was subsequently presented to the entire university community. To ensure inclusivity, ODEI conducted a survey among all Life University faculty and staff during the 2023 Spring Quarter, and the results reflected overwhelming approval for the new institutional diversity statement through the collective votes of the university's academic and administrative members. Diversity & Inclusion Training Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) training yields multiple advantages for the whole University community. It enhances awareness of diverse perspectives, fosters an inclusive work environment, improves communication skills, reduces unconscious bias, boosts employee engagement, attracts and retains diverse talent, ensures legal compliance, promotes innovation and creativity, enhances customer and community relations, and ultimately contributes to the University’s growth and success. The Office for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI) at Life University has developed a comprehensive suite of on-demand online training courses, accessible via Blackboard, for all faculty and staff. These 24/7 training modules cover essential topics, such as Cultural Competence, Implicit Bias, Culturally Responsive Teaching and Providing Support for LGBTQ Students. Life U's Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Harrison Davis further enriched the educational landscape by conducting a two-hour lecture each semester for chiropractic students enrolled in CHPM 1502 - Communication Skills and Diversity. Dr. Davis extended Diversity Leadership Training to various student groups on campus, fostering a culture of inclusivity. Moreover, the ODEI expanded its impact beyond the University by providing online professional development training to members of the Michigan Association of Chiropractors. Dr. Davis led two training seminars, addressing Implicit Bias in Health Care (Part 1) and Managing Implicit Bias in Health Care (Part 2). Assess Cultural Climate On Campus A Cultural Climate Survey is vital for the University as it systematically assesses diversity, inclusion and employee experiences. It identifies areas for improvement through anonymous feedback, enhancing organizational culture. The survey measures employee engagement, aiding initiatives to strengthen connections. It contributes to talent retention and attraction by highlighting aspects of employee satisfaction. Conducting the survey signals leadership commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment, providing actionable insights for continual improvement. This is highly relevant to our strategic initiative of strengthening our processes, operations and systems. The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion conducted two comprehensive campus climate surveys in the 2022 and 2023 Spring Quarters, specifically tailored for faculty and staff and another for students. The survey results were actively shared and discussed with faculty, staff and administrators. In response to student feedback expressing a desire for increased multicultural programming, the office expanded its efforts, organizing numerous cultural programs throughout the year. These events included diverse initiatives such as Hispanic Student Dinners, Cooking Demonstrations, Black Faculty & Staff Meet-and-Greets, outreach events, cultural celebrations, and educational discussions covering topics such as Gender Identity & Pronouns. This proactive approach reflects the office's commitment to fostering a more inclusive and diverse campus environment at Life U. Diversity Champions Diversity champions are integral to cultivating inclusivity and equity in the University. Their significance lies in their active advocacy for inclusivity; the promotion of cultural competence; ensuring representation in decision-making; serving as role models for inclusive behavior; mediating conflicts related to diversity; advocating for resource allocation to diversity initiatives; contributing to recruitment and retention efforts; leading educational programs on diversity and inclusion; shaping inclusive policies; and enhancing the University's reputation for inclusivity. Members of the university community were invited to naminate individuals dedicated to promoting diversity for the annual Diversity Champions Awards. After review by the Diversity Council, Dr. Michael Smith and Dr. Charmaine Herman were honored with the awards in 2022. In 2023, Dr. Marla Thompson and Dr. Corey Viehl received this recognition. The awards were presented during the Martin Luther King Reception for Social Justice, underscoring the University's commitment to acknowledging and celebrating those who actively contribute to diversity and social justice initiatives. All initiatives have been implemented and will continue. Diversity to Inclusion Phase I Achievements D O M A I N 2 Strengthen the Embodiment of our Values cont’d.
