Richland Community College
PA-5: Assessing Diversity and Equity

The College has engaged in several assessments that measure campus diversity culture. The College submits an annual "Underrepresented Groups Report" to the Illinois Community College Board that shows progress has been made in increasing the participation of underrepresented groups in higher education. Over the last five years, the College has engaged in 2 sets of focus groups that assess staff and student diversity climate. The focus groups were conducted by an outside assessor.

The College submits an annual "Underrepresented Groups Report" to the Illinois Community College Board that shows progress has been made in increasing the participation of underrepresented student groups in higher education.

All employees are required to attend diversity in hiring training prior to serving on a search committee. Completion of Diversity in Hiring training is a requirement to serve on an employment search committee at Richland. In this training, search committee members are “shown how Richland promotes respect for diversity in the workplace with regard to race, gender, national origin, disability, age, religion, or sexual orientation.” The training also illustrates how “We believe that our similarities and differences are opportunities.” A person cannot serve on a search committee unless they successfully complete the Diversity in Hiring training.

Diversity is addressed in the College Board Policy Manual: We believe that our similarities and difference are opportunities for establishing a common bond and strengthening the College. I/We will • Employ a College workforce that reflects the community we serve. • Ensure fair and equal access for all. • Recognize, appreciate, and celebrate the strength of diversity. • Provide educational experiences that promote a greater appreciation for diversity. • Implement learning activities that integrate diversity topics in the classroom. • Seek and consider multiple points of view. Richland conducts assessments in its annual Conference on Diversity and Globalization and by providing opportunities to under-represented groups by having its board meetings open to any individual. The 2014 Diversity Conference was on June 12 & 13, 2014 at Richland. Approximately 40 organizations and 190 people across Illinois were represented. This conference also allows Richland College to benchmark with other institutions in regards to diversity related issues. Participants are surveyed at the end of the conference. From previous participation surveys, adjustments have been made to the Conference schedule (adding more sessions) and to the Community Reception. Board meetings are announced and are held Third Tuesday of each month at Richland. The board meetings are open to anyone who wishes to address the board on diversity issues.