Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Mission Statement
Oklahoma Panhandle State University is an institution built upon dedication to oneself and community; as such, the University embraces diversity among faculty, staff, students, and community members and acknowledges our duty to create an environment of inclusivity, acceptance, and growth.
Council for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion serves individuals and groups of all identities and intersections, including but not limited to race, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, and experiences. This council acknowledges that a culture of diversity and inclusivity improves the lives of all community members, which in turn prepares community members for personal and professional success in the global society. Oklahoma Panhandle State University is committed to working with people of these various identities to address current and future challenges presented in our world to create a culture of compassion and respect.
Action Plan
As an institution, the University has outlined the following action steps to create equity across this campus:
- Improve accessibility of support, resources, and mentorship to students and community members of all identities.
- Remove barriers to success that have historically been either implicit or explicit. This includes, but is not limited to, access to tutoring, education, mental health resources, financial aid, and academic advising.
- Amplify marginalized voices and serve as instruments of change within this university on behalf of the community and students represented.
- Advocate for systemic change in policy, in practice, and in the lived experiences of those affiliated with Oklahoma Panhandle State University.
- Provide training and education to faculty, staff, students, and community members regarding diversity and the experiences of those with marginalized identities.
- Serve as a proud, visible ally for those who experience oppression or marginalization.
- Commit to ongoing learning as council members in order to serve most effectively as allies.
- Improve accessibility of support, resources, and mentorship to students and community members of all identities.
- Remove barriers to success that have historically been either implicit or explicit. This includes, but is not limited to, access to tutoring, education, mental health resources, financial aid, and academic advising.
- Amplify marginalized voices and serve as instruments of change within this university on behalf of the community and students represented.
- Advocate for systemic change in policy, in practice, and in the lived experiences of those affiliated with Oklahoma Panhandle State University.
- Provide training and education to faculty, staff, students, and community members regarding diversity and the experiences of those with marginalized identities.
- Serve as a proud, visible ally for those who experience oppression or marginalization.
- Commit to ongoing learning as council members in order to serve most effectively as allies.
Contact
Board of Directors
Director of Communication/Secretary - Vacant
Director of Training and Education - Julie Prior
Director of Student Outreach - Patrick Maille
Director of Community Outreach - Kim Smith
Director of Policy - Tony Hardman
Member At Large - Charla Lewis
Related Links
- New 25 LGBTQ Addiction & Mental Health Support Resources
- New Vector Professional Development
- Academic Resource Center
- BIPOC Mental Health Month
- Hispanic Student Services
- Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education | Coursera
- LGBT History Month
- McKee Library LibGuides: Black / African-American resources
- McKee Library LibGuides: Feminism
- OPSU Affirmative Action Plan (PDF)
- Selecting Pronouns for Use in Canvas