Missouri State University
PA-4: Diversity and Equity Coordination

The University has an Assistant to the President/Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) to advise on and implement policies, programs, professional development trainings related to diversity, equity, inclusion and human rights on campus as well as in the larger community. The CDO is responsible for coordinating executive efforts to establish “Diversity” and “Inclusive Excellence” as core values throughout all aspects of the University community, business practices and programming and in support of the University’s commitment to equal opportunity and affirmative action. Working with units, at all levels of the institution, the Assistant to the President/CDO promotes consistency of diversity processes and procedures to positively impact organizational effectiveness, employee and student development, and community relations. The Assistant to the President/CDO coordinates diversity-oriented programs and initiatives, including the development and implementation of a strategic plan for diversity in line with the University’s long-range plan. As a University leader, the Assistant to the President/CDO maintains strong collaborative working relationships among senior executives, faculty, students, staff and external constituents, and builds teams that function effectively.

Required trainings for Faculty, Staff, and Student Employees - sexual harassment, preventing employment discrimination, and disability awareness ("In Their Shoes—Disability Awareness Training" helps employees enhance their knowledge, skills, and comfort level when working with individuals with disabilities). More information can be found here: https://www.missouristate.edu/provost/orientation/compliancetraining.htm Professional Development opportunities in cultural consciousness/competencies are available to GEP instructors; first and second year new faculty; as well as existing faculty, administrators and staff. The Board of Governors and Administrative Council have also participated in diversity training sessions. Students participate and engage in Tough Talks, Shattering the Silences presentations sponsored by the Division for Diversity & Inclusion (DDI) as well. Each year the DDI and partners sponsor the Collaborative Diversity Conference that shares best practices in D & I programming in higher education, business, corporate and public sectors. The Division of Student Affairs, Multicultural Student Services, the Provost and Colleges and various divisions throughout the university generally sponsor D & I programming and initiatives jointly and individually as well.