Diversity & Inclusion Committee

About Us

The College of Behavioral & Community Sciences (CBCS) acknowledges the uniqueness of all individuals, their commonalities as well as differences, all of which have shaped their lives in meaningful ways.  Diversity is demonstrated by appreciating all members of the university community by embracing uniqueness, similarities, and differences.

CBCS believes that diversity initiatives strengthen the university community and demonstrate USF's commitment to "touching lives and improving the world”.  Inclusion and diversity in all its dimensions are core values of the college that permeate the teaching, research, and service activities.

The CBCS Diversity & Inclusion Committee was originally established as a workgroup in 2015 through the CBCS Faculty Council to identify and address needs within the college.  Initially comprised of faculty and staff who shared an interest in promoting appreciation and understanding of diversity amongst co-workers, students, clients, constituents, and community partners; the workgroup developed and administered a climate survey for the faculty and staff. The following year, a student survey was developed and administered.  Additionally, the Workgroup began forming subcommittees to address the needs of the college.

In 2017, the workgroup became an official committee by majority vote of the Faculty Council and is comprised of faculty, staff and students from around the college.  In the past year, with guidance from the University DIEO, the committee began efforts to help CBCS achieve recognition as a National Model of Diversity. 

During the 2019-2020 academic year, the committee will work on two of the ten criteria outlined under the NMEDI Model: Curricula and Retention of Faculty and Students.  The committee is currently preparing for another climate survey intended for students, faculty, and staff that will be administered in Spring 2020 while continuing to focus on a survey of courses that address diversity content.