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Committed to Change

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Our Commitment

During the 2018-2019 academic year, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee drafted a DEI statement for the School of Education. Once the draft was complete, it was shared with the entire School of Education faculty and staff at a schoolwide meeting. Subsequently, once the draft was discussed, the School of Education faculty and staff voted on whether to approve it. In May 2019, the School of Education unanimously approved the schoolwide statement. 

 

School of Education DEI Statement

We envision and commit to academic excellence, Catholic social justice, and respect and inclusion for all cultures and people. We honor and embrace the sanctity of individuals, including but not limited to all races, sexes, gender identities, gender expressions, religions, ethnic backgrounds, socio-economic classes, sexual orientations, marital statuses, public assistance statuses, veteran statuses, abilities, ages and residency statuses. We invite and support our students, faculty, staff, and guests in creating opportunities that include and explore multiple perspectives. 
  
We strive to provide a continuous learning environment that promotes: 
Student, faculty, and staff learning and development inside and outside the classroom;
Recruitment and retention of diverse faculty, staff, and students; and
Community engagement and partnerships to enhance rich learning experiences for all members.
  
We are committed to responding swiftly and appropriately to situations that are in conflict with our mission.

Seven Pillars of Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion

Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion

The University of St. Thomas School of Education’s fundamental belief is that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) must be embedded throughout all aspects of the academic unit. In order to accomplish this goal, a DEI plan was created to accompany our Strategic Priorities for 2023. The DEI Progress Monitoring Document shows how the activities under each of the Seven Pillars of DEI advance both our Strategic Priorities and the University’s Anti-Racism Action Plan.

Seven Pillars

Policies and Procedures 
Curriculum 
Climate & Environment 
Professional Development 
Personnel (Recruitment and Retention) 
Student Enrichment 
Engagement with the Community
Group of students listening

Diversity from the Ground Up

Building a Strong Foundation

At the School of Education, we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential components of our foundation. This is why we’re committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion are included in every course. 

Learn More About our Four Pillars of the School of Education
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Diversity Makes a Difference

Teachers of Color

The School of Education is dedicated to diversifying the teaching profession and making a difference in the lives of students, families, and communities across Minnesota.

Learn More About Programs for Teachers of Color

Initiatives

  • Dean's Forums
  • National Urban Alliance Summer Institute
  • District and School Partnerships
  • Dean's Forums

    In 2019, the School of Education launched the Dean's Forum, a lecture series designed to provide a place for candid conversations on race, equity, inclusion, and education. Learn more about past events and watch for upcoming speakers.
    Dean's Forum

    National Urban Alliance Summer Institute

    District and School Partnerships

    The School of Education is proud to hold a variety of partnerships with schools and districts around the state of Minnesota all aimed at positively impacting the educational landscape. Through unique programs like our teacher residencies and "work and learn" opportunities, St. Thomas is working to recruit and retain teachers who share similar life experiences as their students.

    District and School Partnerships

    Dean's Forums

    In 2019, the School of Education launched the Dean's Forum, a lecture series designed to provide a place for candid conversations on race, equity, inclusion, and education. Learn more about past events and watch for upcoming speakers.
    Dean's Forum

    National Urban Alliance Summer Institute

    District and School Partnerships

    The School of Education is proud to hold a variety of partnerships with schools and districts around the state of Minnesota all aimed at positively impacting the educational landscape. Through unique programs like our teacher residencies and "work and learn" opportunities, St. Thomas is working to recruit and retain teachers who share similar life experiences as their students.

    District and School Partnerships

    DEI Committee Members

    Members include:

    Shelley Neilsen Gatti
    Cindy Pfingsten
    Ea Porter
    Jayne Sommers
    Aura Wharton-Beck
    Iris Winter