Chancellor's Task Force on Diversity
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Letter from the Chancellor
September 4, 2007
To: ASU Employees
In the past two decades, through concerted efforts, Appalachian has made notable strides in diversifying our student body, as well as our faculty and staff. Now, however, in order to realize its value as a concept woven through every facet of life at Appalachian, it is imperative that we exercise a comprehensive approach to cultivate diversity in all aspects of academic advancement, strategic planning, policy making, and resource development - both human and financial.
Embracing diversity is central to the pursuit of excellence at Appalachian State University. In striving to develop an institutional culture that deepens an understanding of diverse people and their myriad ways of being, knowing, and learning, it is vital that the university offer academic programs and co-curricular activities that prepare students for active, global citizenship. Further, Appalachian has the responsibility to model equitable practices and foster a multiplicity of ideas, talents, cultures, experiences, backgrounds, values and perspectives that contribute to the growth of all members of the greater community.
We are at a critical juncture in our institutional progress, and if we are to realize greater maturity in extending Appalachian’s commitment to diversity, we must take bold steps toward that end. Therefore, I have named a committee composed of students, faculty, staff, administrators, and community members, to develop a new, comprehensive diversity plan for Appalachian State University.
By developing and sustaining a learning community in which all people have an equal prospect for access, opportunity and engagement, we position the university to be a leader in North Carolina, in the region, and well beyond, by preparing students to thrive in an increasingly diverse world, with all its rich dimensions.
I am counting on you to contribute to the charting of our course on this exciting journey.
Ken Peacock
