Overall Rating Silver
Overall Score 51.59
Liaison Maria Mendes
Submission Date Aug. 4, 2022

STARS v2.2

Red River College Polytechnic
PA-7: Support for Underrepresented Groups

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 2.00 / 3.00
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

Does the institution have a publicly posted non-discrimination statement? :
Yes

The non-discrimination statement, including the website URL where the policy is publicly accessible:

H2 – EQUITY DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION POLICY
https://www.rrc.ca/legal/policies/equity-diversity-and-inclusion/
The College is committed to: embedding Equity, Diversity and Inclusion throughout every area and level of the College; creating a culture that fosters critical self-reflection, where every member of the College is accountable for learning about and appreciating diversity among students, employees and community stakeholders; providing an environment that is supportive, accessible, welcoming, safe, and free of stigma, harassment and discrimination in the College community; discovering new approaches to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and building on past lessons and successes; and implementing an employment equity program.

H1 – RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT POLICY
https://www.rrc.ca/legal/policies/respectful-workplace-learning-environment/
The College is committed to: Maintaining a Respectful Workplace and Learning Environment, free from Bullying, Discrimination and Harassment as prohibited by The Human Rights Code, The Workplace Safety and Health Act and this Policy; Educating members of the College Community regarding respectful interactions in a Respectful Workplace and Learning Environment; Taking all reasonable steps to prevent Bullying, Discrimination, Harassment and associated violence; Addressing issues of Bullying, Discrimination or Harassment and associated violence; and Implementing resolution and complaint procedures that provide for the timely and appropriate responses to alleged incidents of Bullying, Discrimination, Harassment and associated violence.

RED RIVER COLLEGE POLYTECHNIC LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
https://www.rrc.ca/indigenous/trc/
Red River College Polytechnic is committed to ensuring that First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge, cultures and traditions are embraced and reflected in the pursuit of its mission.

An acknowledgement of these lands that we are on today, and of the Red River College Polytechnic commitment to Indigenous peoples and communities, now form part of the foundational statements that define Red River College Polytechnic.

Red River College Polytechnic campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation.

Red River College Polytechnic is committed to a renewed relationship and dialogue with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples based on the principles of mutual trust, respect, and reciprocity.

We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STRATEGY
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/diversity/equity-diversity-and-inclusion-strategy/
RRC Polytech is committed to promoting equity and diversity, while fostering a culture of inclusion where all our students and staff feel valued, respected and included. We are committed to developing a learning and working environment that is welcoming, accessible, respectful and engaging for all individuals.

NO WRONG DOOR
https://www.rrc.ca/nowrongdoor/
Red River College Polytechnic is committed to preventing sexual violence, harassment and discrimination and to creating a safe and inclusive working, learning and living environment for everyone. We have zero tolerance for any form of sexual violence, harassment, or discrimination at Red River College Polytechnic.

ANTI-RACISM AT RRC POLYTECH
https://www.rrc.ca/diversity/resources/anti-racism/
As a College community we have a responsibility to commit to standing up, speaking out, and pushing back against racism in all its forms.

We know diversity is one of our greatest strengths and the College is home to thousands of employees and students from all different backgrounds. Every one of us brings a unique perspective, experience, and connection to our workplace and classrooms.

We are proud of our diversity and while we continue to take important action in our shared fight against racism, we know we have more work ahead of us.

Even within the College, we’re not immune to the systemic racism and unconscious bias that continues to be prevalent throughout our communities and across the country – it still exists in our classrooms, hallways, and meeting rooms – and it’s why we must continue to do more. To say we as a College value diversity and inclusion is not enough – we must be anti-racist in our leadership, policies, and actions.

DIVERSITY ON CAMPUS
https://www.rrc.ca/diversity/

Diversity
We believe diversity makes us stronger and drives innovation.

We welcome diverse ethnicity, gender identity, age, national origin, religion, spiritual beliefs, abilities, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, language, and marital and parental status. Our definition also includes diversity of thought: ideas, perspectives, and values that foster respect and inclusion.

Inclusion
We are dedicated to fostering an environment in which all individuals are and feel welcomed, respected and supported to fully participate. We work every day to recognize the needs of students and employees and ensure the right conditions are in place so that each person has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Equity
We are committed to upholding fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. Improving equity involves increasing justice and fairness within the procedures and processes of institutions or systems, as well as potentially the distribution of resources.

Reconciliation
We have actively taken on the responsibility to embed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action. In addition, as signatory to the Manitoba Collaborative Indigenous Education Blueprint, RRC Polytech has made a public pledge to advance Indigenous education in the province.

At the heart of reconciliation is the need to create strong relationships built on trust, respect and inclusion. Reflecting on these values, RRC Polytech has focused on building strong relationships between non-Indigenous and Indigenous students, staff, faculty and community. Truth and Reconciliation belongs to and is the responsibility of every person in Canada. By working together, we will be able to move forward in a way that is mutually beneficial to all peoples.


Does the institution have a discrimination response protocol or committee (sometimes called a bias response team)?:
Yes

A brief description of the institution’s discrimination response protocol or team:

RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE PROCEDURES GUIDE
https://www.rrc.ca/legal/policies/respectful-workplace-learning-environment/procedures/
This guide lays out the processes and procedures for making a disclosure of Disclosure of Sexual Violence, Discrimination, Harassment or Bullying. Complaints of discrimination, harassment or sexual violence go to the Resource and Resolution Advisor (the "RRA") who follows the steps laid out in the guide.

NO WRONG DOOR
https://www.rrc.ca/nowrongdoor/
The RRC Polytech No Wrong Door website provides staff, students and faculty with the tools are resources needed whether they wish to make a disclosure or will/have received one. It provides information about on- and off-campus supports and resources, links to reporting tools and intake forms, and supports for how to make or receive a disclosure.

RESPECTFUL COLLEGE COURSE - STUDENTS
RRC Polytech has developed a course called Respectful College to support our commitment to a safe and inclusive working and learning environment where everyone is entitled to be free from bullying, harassment, discrimination, and sexual violence.

The Respectful College course is available to all students and takes about two hours to complete. Students who complete the full training, including learning activities, will be eligible to print a Certificate of Completion.

RESPECTFUL COLLEGE COURSE – STAFF
All staff are required to take the Respectful College course which is intended to make staff aware of the policies in place at RRC Polytech to promote and support an inclusive and respectful environment for all members of the College community, including staff and students. The course introduces staff to two key policies: the Respectful Workplace and Learning Environment ("RWLE") Policy (Policy H1) and the Sexual Violence Policy (Policy G5). Staff are introduced to key terms, what each policy says, how it is interpreted and what it means for them in practice. The course will also offer practical guidance on how staff can do their part to ensure the College is a safe and respectful place for all.


Does the institution have programs specifically designed to recruit students from underrepresented groups?:
Yes

Does the institution have programs specifically designed to recruit academic staff from underrepresented groups?:
Yes

Does the institution have programs designed specifically to recruit non-academic staff from underrepresented groups?:
Yes

A brief description of the institution’s programs to recruit students, academic staff, and/or non-academic staff from underrepresented groups:

STUDENT RECRUITMENT

Indigenous Liaison Advisor (Weeshengaawin)
https://www.rrc.ca/indigenous/aspiring-student/
The Indigenous Liaison Advisor is a point of first contact for students of First Nation, Métis and Inuit ancestry. They provide support and guidance for the application process and admission requirements; registration, including document submissions; and connection to other Indigenous Student Support team members. Indigenous Liaison Advisors also build relationships by working cooperatively with Indigenous communities and band councils, consulting with faculty, liaising with Indigenous organizations, and connecting with employers. These relationships are developed to assist students in their career connections, funding sponsorship, urban adjustment, and familiarity with Red River College Polytechnic.

Pathway Programs:
https://www.rrc.ca/indigenous/
Pathway programs are preparatory and exploratory and provide Indigenous Manitobans with the skills and supports to transition into selected programs at Red River College Polytechnic by increasing their academic, personal, social and financial readiness. Students gain the skills to succeed in a supportive and inclusive environment infused with Indigenous culture.
- Pathway to Business, Creative Communications and Digital Technology Programs: Business Administration, Business Information Technology, Commerce Industry Sales & Marketing, Creative Communications, Digital Media Design, Hospitality and Tourism Management
- Pathway to Engineering Technology Programs: Civil Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Pathway to Health Programs: Dental Assisting, Nursing, Paramedicine, Science Laboratory Technology, Veterinary Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Radiologic Technology
- Pathway to Information Technology Programs: Business Information Technology, Information Security, IT Operations

International Education
https://www.rrc.ca/international/student-support/
RRC Polytech offers full support to immigrant and international students – from choosing the program that best suits their needs; to adapting to life in Canada and as an RRC Polytech student; to improving their knowledge, competence and integration into our learning community; to finding employment and applying for a Canadian visa.

Language Training Centre
https://www.rrc.ca/ltc/
The Language Training Centre has innovative and accessible programs including Intensive English, English for Specific Purposes, and Academic Language Preparation. Our students have many goals for settlement, education/training, and employment. We support students and their success through the delivery of educational and cultural activities – in classrooms and computer labs, online, in the community, or in the workplace.

Student Accessibility Services
https://www.rrc.ca/accessibility/
Red River College Polytechnic is committed to providing persons with documented disabilities fair and equal access to educational programs, services, and facilities. Student Accessibility Services works collaboratively with students, faculty and support staff to identify and implement strategies to ensure that all students can have an equal opportunity to achieve their educational goals.

Recognition of Prior Learning
https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/credit-for-prior-learning/
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that identifies, documents, assesses and recognizes formal study, and informal and non-formal learning gained through work and life experience. RRC Polytech evaluates and grants credit for qualifying previous learning that is equivalent to learning outcomes in College courses and programs. Benefits include:
- encourages pursuit of formal education
- eliminates duplication of learning
- increases access
- may reduce the cost of a College education
- may shorten the time to complete a College program
- increases self-esteem and self-confidence
- validates learning gained through work and life experience
- identifies program areas requiring further study
- assists with career development and educational planning

Red River College Polytechnic Awards
https://catalogue.rrc.ca/AvailableAwards.aspx
Last year, Red River College Polytechnic administered awards, bursaries, and scholarships totaling more than $2.9 million to help students achieve their academic goals. Many of these awards are made available for underrepresented groups including, but not limited to: Indigenous students, visible minorities, students with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ students, youth in care, newcomers, and international students.

STAFF AND FACULTY RECRUITMENT

Employment Equity
https://www.rrc.ca/diversity/employment-equity/
RRC Polytech follows the Employment Equity Act (Canada) to define our commitment to creating a fair and equitable workplace. Employment Equity is a program designed to identify and eliminate employment barriers that may exist in procedures and policies. An employment equity program attempts to achieve:
- A workforce that reflects the diversity of the available labour force
- Employment systems, policies and practices that support the equitable recruitment, retention and promotion of designated group members
- Employment systems that ensure inclusive access to employees in developing their abilities and making the best contribution possible to the workplace.

Interview Accommodations
https://www.rrc.ca/hr/work/interview-accommodations/
An accommodation in the interview process can be provided for candidates with disabilities and/or medical conditions. An accommodation is meant to ensure that our recruitment process is barrier free and equitable for all individuals. In addition, proper accommodations allow Human Resource Services the opportunity to fairly and accurately assess the qualification of job candidates.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STRATEGY
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/diversity/equity-diversity-and-inclusion-strategy/
EDI Pillars
- Recruitment and Selection: is the attraction, selection and promotion of candidates for jobs within an organization. RRC Polytech is committed to ensuring that employment decisions are based on skill and ability, and that qualified applicants and employees have equal opportunities for employment. In addition, we are committed to creating opportunities to grow our diverse workforce and evaluate our employment processes for the removal of biases and barriers.
- Training and Development: is the process of imparting knowledge, skills, and concepts while influencing changes to attitude, culture and status quo. Effective organizational training develops the human capital of a company while helping employees succeed in their roles. RRC Polytech is committed to providing training and development opportunities that is accessible, relevant and inclusive to all staff (and students where applicable) while promoting the understanding and literacy of diversity related topics.
- Retention and Engagement: is the ability of an organization to retain the engagement of its workforce and talent over time. We are committed to building an engaging, inclusive and rewarding environment where all employees are empowered and set up for success.
- External Partnerships and Outreach: is to build meaningful relationships with external organizations/partners to further support and compliment the successful delivery of our EDI goals.
- Student Success: is to create learning opportunities to meet the current and emerging needs of students, employers, and communities.


Does the institution have mentoring, counseling, peer support, academic support, or other programs designed specifically to support students from underrepresented groups on campus?:
Yes

Does the institution have mentoring, counseling, peer support or other programs designed specifically to support academic staff from underrepresented groups on campus?:
Yes

Does the institution have mentoring, counseling, peer support or other programs to support non-academic staff from underrepresented groups on campus?:
Yes

A brief description of the institution’s programs designed specifically to support students, academic staff, and/or non-academic staff from underrepresented groups:

STUDENTS SUPPORTS

INDIGENOUS STUDENT SUPPORTS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS
https://www.rrc.ca/indigenous/supports/
- Indigenous Student Support Centres: Located at the Notre Dame and Exchange District Campuses, our Indigenous Support Centres provide a home away from home where staff and students can smudge, participate in events, cultural teachings and ceremonies, or spend time with friends.
- Elders-In-Residence: Indigenous Education is stronger at Red River College Polytechnic with the support of our Elders and Knowledge Keepers. Elders have always held positions of high esteem and importance; they are the living libraries that hold the wisdom, history and cultural knowledge of our Nations. Our Elders-in-Residence are here to support education through Indigenous ways of teaching, learning and leading. They play an important role in student and staff health, wellness, and cultural and spiritual development.
- Academic Liaison And Resource Coaches: The Academic Liaison and Resource Coaches are here to support student learning needs to achieve academic success. They offer tutoring and coaching – both one-one-one and in groups.
- Navigation Coaches: Navigation Coaches are a first point of contact for current Indigenous students and can help with everything from finding your way around campus, problem-solving, sharing important resources and information, understanding College processes and accessing community services. They will also help connect you with other important support team members, who together, can ensure you receive the help you need.
- R-Crew: The Indigenous Student Support & Community Relations department hires students each year and is known amongst their peers as the R-Crew – Resource Crew. The R-Crew are leaders who support and encourage other students, assist with events and perform various administrative duties which develop and enhance their skill set. These students are role models and an integral part of our team who help to create our community on campus.

DIVERSITY RESOURCES
https://www.rrc.ca/diversity/resources/
- The Spectrum: RRC Polytech is accepting and affirming of various gender identities for our students, staff and faculty. The Spectrum is an RRC Polytech Students’ Association (RRCSA) space for members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and their allies.
- Spiritual Supports: RRC Polytech offers spaces for personal or spiritual reflection, prayer, meditation, or individual contemplation. The Reflection Rooms are designed to be non-denominational spaces open to people of all religions, faiths, and/or spiritual practices. They can also be used by students who want a quiet space away from the busy campus. Accessing quiet spaces can be a valuable part of students’ healthy mind, healthy body strategy.
- No Wrong Door: RRC Polytech is committed to preventing sexual violence, harassment and discrimination and to creating a safe and inclusive working, learning and living environment for everyone. If you have experienced any of the above, there are many supports, resources and people available to help. If you know of someone who has experienced any of the above, there is support for you too.

STUDENT ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
https://www.rrc.ca/accessibility/services/
- Academic Accommodation Plans: Student Accessibility Services works together with students with disabilities and their academic program to develop and facilitate individualized and appropriate accommodations. Development of accommodation plans are based on medical documentation provided by the student and student self-report. Program course objectives and learning outcomes are also considered when developing accommodation plans.
- Assistive Technology / Alternate Format Material: The use of assistive technology and alternate format material are academic accommodations provided to students with documented disabilities, in order to provide equal opportunity for students to master the essentials of post-secondary programming.
- Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) offers accommodations such as ASL-English interpreters and computerized note takers to ensure equal access to education of all Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS CENTRE
https://library.rrc.ca/ASC?source=topmenu
The Academic Success Centre (ASC) supports college students in individual and group tutoring, review workshops for targeted courses, academic coaching, study skills training, writing supports, EAL support, diversity training, and technology literacy supports. Some examples of supports specifically for underrepresented groups:
- English Language Centre: ASC staff are trained to work with students whose first language is not English to develop confidence and competence with the language skills needed for success in their program, coop, and industry. Ongoing English Language Tutoring will help you improve reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, using program-specific material and assignments. Short-term tutoring is also available for immediate support, as well as workshops and resources for studying on your own.
- Academic Supports for Students with Disabilities: students with a disability may be eligible to access free, weekly tutoring or academic coaching support with an ASC staff tutor.

THE CANADIAN CONNECTION PROGRAM
https://www.rrc.ca/international/student-support/canadian-connection-program/
Throughout the year, the Center for International Education and Global Partnerships (CIEGP) offers various student support sessions and events to help students better integrate into campus life and Canadian culture. The program goals include:
- Develop opportunities for the integration of immigrant and international students on campus and within the local Winnipeg community.
- Through the coordination of College-wide opportunities, students, staff, and faculty are given the opportunity to build awareness of diversity and inclusion on campus and in the larger Winnipeg community.
- Facilitate opportunities for immigrant and international students to gain exposure to various Winnipeg based activities and events through informing students about community activities and the development of community partnerships.
- Reduce isolation and feelings of loneliness.
- Facilitate social networking and building local and on campus connections through program event and volunteering opportunities.
- Focus on local Canadian culture and local recreational activities.

LANGUAGE TRAINING CENTRE (LTC): STUDENT INTEGRATION SERVICES
https://www.rrc.ca/ltc/life/supports/
- Pathways to Success: Presentations from community organizations supporting employment and education opportunities
- Individual Pathway Planning: One-on-one meetings with students to discuss educational opportunities leading to future employment including funding, credential recognition and admission requirements. Information for future employment including resumes, volunteer opportunities, job search skills, and referrals to community organizations
- Settlement Support Services: One-on-one meetings with students to discuss settlement issues, such as parenting, health, legal concerns, etc. and referrals to community organizations as necessary.
- Settlement information sessions, such as Personal Safety, Housing, and Income Tax information
- Personal Support Counselling: One-on-one meetings to help students through times of crisis, including support to manage mental wellness and address personal/relational challenges; group information sessions on topics related to mental wellness; support for accommodations for students as needed

CAMPUS WELL-BEING
https://www.rrc.ca/well-being/mental-wellness/supports/
- Student Counselling Services: All students at all campus locations are welcome to access support from our professional and registered counsellors for free. Red River College Polytechnic counsellors can help you work through personal struggles, develop skills to manage better, and improve your wellbeing.
- Early Assist: Early Assist is a confidential online platform that provides the RRC Polytech community, including faculty, staff and students, an opportunity to identify students who may be struggling personally (non-academic), so that staff can offer them appropriate support and services at an early stage. Learn more about the platform.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
https://www.rrc.ca/ses/students/
- Indigenous Students: Employment Advisors at Student Employment Services (SES) provide employment supports to Indigenous students and alumni. SES also works to build relationships with employers to ensure Indigenous students have employment connections and have a voice at the hiring table.
- International and Immigrant Students: Looking for work in Canada may be different from what you have experienced in the past. To prepare for employment in the Canadian workplace, take advantage of these additional resources that will help make your job search in Canada a success.

STAFF AND FACULTY SUPPORTS

SUPPORTIVE EMPLOYMENT
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/human-resources/supportive-employment/
- Commitment to Employee Health and Wellness: Red River College Polytechnic provides many services and resources to support health and wellness, to ensure a safe, healthy, sustainable return to work arrangement and/or stay at work plan for faculty and staff members. The College is committed to supporting employees to maintain their health and to recover from illness or injury when it occurs by providing the opportunity for workplace accommodation or reintegration to assist its employees with medical concerns during or after periods of disability. Modified or alternate duties may be temporarily or permanently provided to ill, injured or medically restricted employees with medical needs and/or reduced functional abilities. The College is also prepared to provide support and/or reasonable accommodation as we strive to enable employees to remain at work by accommodating their medical needs, or to return-to-work as soon as it is medically appropriate in order to facilitate further recovery and maintain connection to the workplace.

ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES FOR STAFF
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/accessibility/
The College is committed to providing an accessible workplace for all staff. There are many resources and programs available.
- Accessibility Guidelines for Staff Training: These guidelines have been made to ensure that training for staff at Red River College Polytechnic is accessible. The guidelines have been made by people with disabilities and people who work closely with the disability community, as well as a staff team.
- Accessibility Standards for Remote Meetings/Events: As we organize larger scale meetings/events with internal or external stakeholders, it is important that we keep our commitments to accessibility and inclusion in mind. Please use the following as a guideline in your planning process:
- Ergonomic Assessments of workstations and/or tasks

DIVERSITY CHAMPIONS
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/diversity/champions/
- Responsible for supporting the development of EDI Action Plans for their respective department/program areas (in conjunction with Senior Management and HR).
- Act as a liaison between their team and Human Resources by engaging in continuous dialogue, and reporting on progress made on the Action Plans.
- Advocate for EDI and help disseminate information related to future initiatives throughout the College.
- Participate in quarterly meetings of the Diversity Champion Network in order to come together as a group and build on successes.
- Liaise with HR to identify emerging EDI trends/needs for the College.
- Hold the College accountable for progress related to EDI goals, strategies and initiatives.

REMOTE WORK
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/human-resources/remote-work/
Human Resource Services has developed a suite of tools and resources to support employees and managers with the assessment and, where suitable, the implementation of remote work arrangements.

EMPLOYEE AND FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
https://www.rrc.ca/staff/resources/campus-well-being/supports/
Homewood Health’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) is a free, confidential and anonymous program which offers short-term counselling and support related to a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety, stress management, grief and bereavement, work and family balance, parenting, gambling, substance use and work-related problems. It can also support in areas of childcare and eldercare, career planning, financial and legal consultation.


Does the institution have training and development programs, teaching fellowships and/or other programs that specifically aim to support and prepare students from underrepresented groups for careers as faculty members?:
No

A brief description of the institution’s programs to support and prepare students from underrepresented groups for careers as faculty members:
---

Does the institution produce a publicly accessible inventory of gender-neutral bathrooms on campus?:
Yes

Does the institution offer housing options to accommodate the special needs of transgender and transitioning students?:
---

Website URL where information about the institution’s support for underrepresented groups is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
---

Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
---

The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.