College of ACES Academic Programs, April 24, 2014 (Abridged version)
Discovering, advancing, and integrating new knowledge to ensure nutritious and safe food, sustainable and innovative agriculture, strong families and communities, and environmentally sound use of natural resources to benefit the people of Illinois and the world.
Define what this focal area means to your specific unit. In addition, address how Inclusive Illinois is actually implemented and institutionalized within the unit.
The College of ACES understands that the development of a culturally competent community of faculty, staff, and students is critical. Through our policies, procedures, and practices, we seek to provide opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to fully participate in workshops, seminars, and individual discussions that promote understanding and appreciation of such differences.
How does your unit compare in findings, i.e., qualitative reports and rankings (when appropriate) to the nation, the University of Illinois, and peer units at other universities?
At 14.6%, ACES leads peer institutions in the Big Ten in the percentage of underrepresented students (African American, Hispanic, Native American), compared to 11.8% at the Ohio State University, which has the next highest percentage.
Identify your unit’s strengths and challenges in this area.
A major strength of the College of ACES is its responsivity when concerns about inclusivity are raised. ACES provides unlimited opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to meet with the assistant dean for diversity programs to share insights and concerns about the college environment.