| Overall Rating | Silver |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 45.93 |
| Liaison | Gabrielle Jette |
| Submission Date | April 13, 2022 |
The Catholic University of America
PA-5: Diversity and Equity Coordination
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
1.89 / 2.00 |
Does the institution have a diversity and equity committee, office, and/or officer tasked by the administration or governing body to advise on and implement policies, programs, and trainings related to diversity, equity, inclusion and human rights?:
Does the committee, office and/or officer focus on students, employees, or both?:
A brief description of the diversity and equity committee, office and/or officer, including purview and activities:
In fall 2020, The Catholic University of America took a major step forward toward fulfilling its commitment to embrace and reflect the racial and ethnic diversity that enriches our Church, city, and nation. The Sister Thea Bowman Committee was formed to study all facets of University operations and make recommendations concerning racial equality to the University leadership. In fall 2021, the committee released its report, complete with numerous recommendations for meaningful change.
Additionally, in July 2021, Catholic University President John Garvey announcement the appointment of Associate Dean of Engineering Mel Williams, Jr., to oversee diversity and inclusion initiatives at Catholic University. As a special assistant, Williams will be accountable to President Garvey for the execution of recommendations from the Sister Thea Bowman Committee, as well as related University strategic goals, all contributing to improving the University’s mission performance. He will serve as a member of the Executive Committee of the Administrative Council, and work collaboratively with the University’s administration, faculty, staff, students and alumni to address matters of race and equality in University operations.
The Center for Cultural Engagement (CCE) advances The Catholic University of America’s commitment to a campus and a world that values every human being, and supports and celebrates their uniqueness, experiences, and contributions. Through the promotion of intercultural education and awareness, the CCE contributes to the personal and intercultural development of all students; fostering the development of a sense of self, belonging and commitment to the common good.
The CCE plays a prominent role in the recruitment, retention, and graduation of Catholic University students from minority backgrounds. The CCE plays a significant role in the learning and development of traditionally underserved students; while serving as an institutional advocate for their overall success. The CCE is a recognized and respected partner in the development of comprehensive academic support and accompaniment of minority students on campus. The CCE has built strong networks that connect the university with other local and regional partners invested in the success of minority students, their families and communities.
Estimated proportion of students that has participated in cultural competence, anti-oppression, anti-racism, and/or social inclusion trainings and activities:
Estimated proportion of academic staff that has participated in cultural competence, anti-oppression, anti-racism, and/or social inclusion trainings and activities:
Estimated proportion of non-academic staff that has participated in cultural competence, anti-oppression, anti-racism, and/or social inclusion trainings and activities:
A brief description of the institution’s cultural competence, anti-oppression, anti-racism, and/or social inclusion trainings and activities:
Students: All incoming first year students are required to complete an online course on sexual violence before the academic year. New student orientation includes programming on sexual assault using live actors to illustrate common situations and appropriate response. All peer educators, orientation advisors, resident assistants, hall safety assistants, and student ministers attend in-person training on prevention of sexual assault and proper reporting. The university provides bystander intervention workshops to students throughout the year. The Dean of Students Office coordinates numerous events during Sexual Violence Prevention Month, Dating Violence Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Faculty and Staff: The Title IX Coordinator provides training on issues related to sexual violence, sexual harassment and discrimination to faculty, staff, and students throughout the year.
The Department of Public Safety provides training in Rape Aggression Defense Systems for faculty, staff, and students. The CUA Counseling Center, Department of Public Safety, Office of the Dean of Students, and Student Health Services are available to provide informational programs and support to University students and employees upon request.
Website URL where information about the institution’s diversity and equity office or trainings 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.