| Overall Rating | Gold |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 67.63 |
| Liaison | Konrad Schlarbaum |
| Submission Date | March 1, 2024 |
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
PA-7: Support for Underrepresented Groups
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
2.00 / 3.00 |
Sloan
Gonzales Director of DEI Education and Outreach DEI |
"---"
indicates that no data was submitted for this field
Non-discrimination statement
Yes
The non-discrimination statement, including the website URL where the policy is publicly accessible:
UCCS 300-017, Discrimination and Harassment Campus Policy
The Protected Class Discrimination and Harassment Policy (UCCS 300-017) prohibits discriminating and/or harassing on the basis of one or more protected classes of race, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, veteran status, political affiliation and/or political philosophy. The policy also prohibits retaliation and other related violations.
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS or University) is committed to providing an environment where all individuals can achieve their academic and professional aspirations free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and/or related misconduct based on protected class status. It is critical to this commitment that anyone who believes they may have been the target of protected class discrimination or harassment in the context of University educational programs, activities, or employment, to feel free to report their concerns for appropriate investigation and response, without fear of retaliation.
The UCCS Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) is responsible for the administration of this policy, as delegated by the Chancellor. Additional procedures are available on the OIE website (https://equity.uccs.edu/).
https://vcaf.uccs.edu/sites/default/files/inline-files/2023_SEP_5_300-017%20Discrimination%20and%20Harassment%20Policy%20%28APPROVED%29.pdf
The Protected Class Discrimination and Harassment Policy (UCCS 300-017) prohibits discriminating and/or harassing on the basis of one or more protected classes of race, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, veteran status, political affiliation and/or political philosophy. The policy also prohibits retaliation and other related violations.
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS or University) is committed to providing an environment where all individuals can achieve their academic and professional aspirations free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and/or related misconduct based on protected class status. It is critical to this commitment that anyone who believes they may have been the target of protected class discrimination or harassment in the context of University educational programs, activities, or employment, to feel free to report their concerns for appropriate investigation and response, without fear of retaliation.
The UCCS Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) is responsible for the administration of this policy, as delegated by the Chancellor. Additional procedures are available on the OIE website (https://equity.uccs.edu/).
https://vcaf.uccs.edu/sites/default/files/inline-files/2023_SEP_5_300-017%20Discrimination%20and%20Harassment%20Policy%20%28APPROVED%29.pdf
Bias response team
Yes
A brief description of the institution’s discrimination response protocol or team:
Office of Institutional Equity (OIE)- The OIE’s mission is to foster a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment. Utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach, the OIE addresses all reports of sexual misconduct, protected class discrimination and harassment, and conflicts of interest in cases of amorous relationships. Additionally, the OIE facilitates case resolutions, education, supportive and safety measures, and supports the processes for student and employee accommodations, including for pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, lactation, and religion. To achieve this mission, the OIE utilizes fair and unbiased processes and treats all individuals who seek our assistance with respect and dignity.
OIE Resources:
Guide for reporting: https://equity.uccs.edu/oie-reporting-options
Guide for being an active bystander: https://equity.uccs.edu/support-and-intervention
The CARE Team- The CARE (Campus Assessment Response and Evaluation) Team addresses concerns related to students’ safety and wellbeing, and we support students in times of challenge and crisis. The CARE Team assesses and responds to reported concerns or disruptions, we create access to resources for students to maintain their safety, health, and well-being, and we evaluate whether individuals pose a risk to themselves or others. UCCS cares about our students' holistic development and wellness. We believe that if a student is to be successful academically, support must also be given on an emotional, social, physical, and intellectual basis. If you believe a student may be struggling in any of these areas or may present a health or safety risk, please refer them to the CARE Team.
Care Team Resources:
Guide for Dealing with Distressed Students: https://dos.uccs.edu/helpful-tips
Strategies for Assisting Students: https://dos.uccs.edu/strategies
Skill resources to help you stay grounded: https://dos.uccs.edu/care/staying-grounded
https://equity.uccs.edu/sites/default/files/2024-02/OIE%20Resolution%20Procedures%202.1.2024.pdf
OIE Resources:
Guide for reporting: https://equity.uccs.edu/oie-reporting-options
Guide for being an active bystander: https://equity.uccs.edu/support-and-intervention
The CARE Team- The CARE (Campus Assessment Response and Evaluation) Team addresses concerns related to students’ safety and wellbeing, and we support students in times of challenge and crisis. The CARE Team assesses and responds to reported concerns or disruptions, we create access to resources for students to maintain their safety, health, and well-being, and we evaluate whether individuals pose a risk to themselves or others. UCCS cares about our students' holistic development and wellness. We believe that if a student is to be successful academically, support must also be given on an emotional, social, physical, and intellectual basis. If you believe a student may be struggling in any of these areas or may present a health or safety risk, please refer them to the CARE Team.
Care Team Resources:
Guide for Dealing with Distressed Students: https://dos.uccs.edu/helpful-tips
Strategies for Assisting Students: https://dos.uccs.edu/strategies
Skill resources to help you stay grounded: https://dos.uccs.edu/care/staying-grounded
https://equity.uccs.edu/sites/default/files/2024-02/OIE%20Resolution%20Procedures%202.1.2024.pdf
Recruitment programs
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
If yes to any of the above, provide:
UCCS values inclusive diversity as a foundation for teaching and scholarship that prepares students, faculty, staff, and community members for both local and global multicultural realities. We provide an open, safe, and supportive campus environment based on mutual respect, engagement, and learning for everyone including those from the full spectrum of backgrounds, social identities, abilities, cultures, perspectives, and university roles.
Per the DEI Strategic Framework Pillars developed in 2022 three of the five pillars focus on recruiting and retaining students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented groups:
Pillar 2: Inclusion in Teaching, Research, and Service - Enhance UCCS’s academic DEI infrastructure through innovative practices that promote inclusive pedagogy, culturally responsive teaching, and diversity in research and scholarship.
Pillar 3: Diverse Student Access, Retention and Persistence - Increase access, retention, persistence, and graduation rates of marginalized, underserved, and/or underrepresented undergraduate and graduate student.
Pillar 4: Diverse Talent Foundation and Pathways - Increase diverse talent resources, opportunities for advancement and promotion, and retention strategies for marginalized, underserved, and underrepresented staff and faculty.
In addition to the DEI strategic framework pillars, The Division of Enrollment Management partners with the Division of DEI to create inclusive recruitment practices and in the development of their 2024 Strategic Enrollment Plan.
The Office of DEI Education and Outreach in partnership with Human Resources runs the Equity Advocate program. Equity Advocates serve the campus community by actively contributing to institutional transformation by promoting and enhancing fairness, diversity, equity, and inclusiveness for all faculty and staff. Advocates work to ensure search and selection processes will be equitable to all candidates. Equity Advocates are members of the search committees who act as a process advisor to provide committees support and guidance at every stage of the process. Advocates help advance inclusive excellence by asking questions to help committee members. The equity advocate plays a vital role throughout the search processes including in screening, interviews, references, evaluation, and integration of the new faculty or staff member into the institution.
Per the DEI Strategic Framework Pillars developed in 2022 three of the five pillars focus on recruiting and retaining students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented groups:
Pillar 2: Inclusion in Teaching, Research, and Service - Enhance UCCS’s academic DEI infrastructure through innovative practices that promote inclusive pedagogy, culturally responsive teaching, and diversity in research and scholarship.
Pillar 3: Diverse Student Access, Retention and Persistence - Increase access, retention, persistence, and graduation rates of marginalized, underserved, and/or underrepresented undergraduate and graduate student.
Pillar 4: Diverse Talent Foundation and Pathways - Increase diverse talent resources, opportunities for advancement and promotion, and retention strategies for marginalized, underserved, and underrepresented staff and faculty.
In addition to the DEI strategic framework pillars, The Division of Enrollment Management partners with the Division of DEI to create inclusive recruitment practices and in the development of their 2024 Strategic Enrollment Plan.
The Office of DEI Education and Outreach in partnership with Human Resources runs the Equity Advocate program. Equity Advocates serve the campus community by actively contributing to institutional transformation by promoting and enhancing fairness, diversity, equity, and inclusiveness for all faculty and staff. Advocates work to ensure search and selection processes will be equitable to all candidates. Equity Advocates are members of the search committees who act as a process advisor to provide committees support and guidance at every stage of the process. Advocates help advance inclusive excellence by asking questions to help committee members. The equity advocate plays a vital role throughout the search processes including in screening, interviews, references, evaluation, and integration of the new faculty or staff member into the institution.
Mentoring, counseling and support programs
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:
UCCS Wellness Center- The Mental Health Services Staff are here to serve the counseling and mental health-related needs of UCCS students. The services we provide help UCCS students achieve their educational goals, define their career goals, learn more about problem-solving processes, enhance their capacity for satisfying interpersonal relationships, and maximize their capacity for continued emotional growth. Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, crisis/emergency interventions, and consultation sessions for concerned friends/roommates/instructors. We also offer workshops and presentations open to the UCCS community.
Dean of Students- The CARE (Campus Assessment Response and Evaluation) Team addresses concerns related to students’ safety and wellbeing, and supports students in times of challenge and crisis. The CARE Team assesses and responds to reported concerns or disruptions, we create access to resources for students to maintain their safety, health, and well-being, and we evaluate whether individuals pose a risk to themselves or others.
UCCS Ethics- UCCS has adopted an institutional compliance program that is intended to support a culture of ethics and compliance within the University community by providing avenues for faculty and staff to voice these concerns. An effective compliance program promotes the achievement of University goals and helps avoid the program disruption and financial loss that can accompany compliance failures.
First2Go- First2Go is designed to recognize, celebrate, and establish belonging for first-generation college students at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. With over 30% of UCCS undergrads identifying as first-generation, First2Go offers a space for connection, support, and celebration to come alongside students through their college journey.
Undocumented Student Resources- The Multicultural Office for Student Access, Inclusiveness, and Community (MOSAIC) supports UCCS Undocumented/DACA/ASSET students, also referred to as Dreamers, and other multicultural students who receive the additional attention, advocacy, and support of the MOSAIC.
Textbook Affordability & Access Program (TAAP)- TAAP is a new program at UCCS that provides all required physical and digital course materials to students on or before the first day of class at the cost of $22 per credit hour, significantly reducing the financial burden for textbook purchases.
Telus Health Student Support- Free, confidential mental health and wellbeing support 24/7 with a counselor through the Student Support app. Telephone, video, and in-person counseling is available by appointment for short-term support. There are also self-directed resources including articles, videos, assessments, and more.
Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience- The mission of the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience is to advance human resilience to adversity by designing evidence-based solutions through interdisciplinary research, healing therapies, and community training and empowerment. This is accomplished through the work of our three divisions: Research, Healing, and Community Training & Empowerment.
The Multicultural Office for Student Access, Inclusiveness, and Community (MOSAIC) and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer (LGBTQ+) Resource Center are student advocated support services designed to cultivate the holistic development of historically and currently marginalized students at UCCS. All UCCS students can expect ongoing programs, trainings and workshops, leadership development, intentionally designed resources, and active advising from the full-time staff.
Disability Services & Testing Center- Disability Services promote an equitable and inclusive student experience by providing reasonable accommodations and advancing awareness and education within the campus community.
Veteran and Military Affairs- The Veteran and Military Affairs team is ready to serve all military-affiliated students at UCCS. Veteran and Military Affairs provide benefits processing, peer advising, success coaching, and social events.
Student Multicultural Coalition- The Multicultural Student Coalition is comprised of student groups that are focused on campus diversity and inclusion. These student groups create a sense of belonging and host diverse events throughout the year. This list includes the most active groups that are directly supported by MOSAIC.
Faculty Assembly Women’s Committee (FAWC) is an existing network of women and faculty who met regularly in alignment with the University of Colorado Faculty Council. FAWC addresses the concerns of women-identifying faculty.
Faculty Equity & Inclusion Committee (FEIC) addresses the needs of faculty of color on the UCCS campus and advocates for equity, diversity, and inclusion. FEIC advocates for social justice on behalf of minority faculty, staff, and students, and responds to societal issues that affect the campus community. Furthermore, FEIC provides a space for faculty to discuss campus climate, issues related to hiring, retention, and intellectual freedom.
Faculty Assembly Disability Committee (DISC) provides information for faculty at UCCS regarding disability, with a focus on better including and accommodating students with disabilities in your courses. These resources will be of use to faculty with disabilities and their allies, and any faculty member interested in diversity and inclusion.
Staff & Faculty PRIDE Committee strives for the advancement and advocacy for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community of the university through increasing the visibility of LGBTQIA+ groups as a presence and resource within UCCS and the wider community; advising on the inclusivity of LGBTQIA+ concerns within UCCS policies and procedures; supporting the education of UCCS staff, students and faculty specific to the LGBTQIA+ community; and supporting and advocating for UCCS LGBTQIA+ staff and students.
Women Identifying Staff Committee (WISC) was born out of shared experiences at the CU Women’s Succeeding Symposium and a desire to foster at UCCS the same energy and focus on issues uniquely faced by women in the University. We strive to create a safe space for women identifying staff members to voice frustrations, concerns, seek information and resources, find mentorship and validation and will in turn work to elevate the needs of women identifying staff members to campus and system leadership
Dean of Students- The CARE (Campus Assessment Response and Evaluation) Team addresses concerns related to students’ safety and wellbeing, and supports students in times of challenge and crisis. The CARE Team assesses and responds to reported concerns or disruptions, we create access to resources for students to maintain their safety, health, and well-being, and we evaluate whether individuals pose a risk to themselves or others.
UCCS Ethics- UCCS has adopted an institutional compliance program that is intended to support a culture of ethics and compliance within the University community by providing avenues for faculty and staff to voice these concerns. An effective compliance program promotes the achievement of University goals and helps avoid the program disruption and financial loss that can accompany compliance failures.
First2Go- First2Go is designed to recognize, celebrate, and establish belonging for first-generation college students at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. With over 30% of UCCS undergrads identifying as first-generation, First2Go offers a space for connection, support, and celebration to come alongside students through their college journey.
Undocumented Student Resources- The Multicultural Office for Student Access, Inclusiveness, and Community (MOSAIC) supports UCCS Undocumented/DACA/ASSET students, also referred to as Dreamers, and other multicultural students who receive the additional attention, advocacy, and support of the MOSAIC.
Textbook Affordability & Access Program (TAAP)- TAAP is a new program at UCCS that provides all required physical and digital course materials to students on or before the first day of class at the cost of $22 per credit hour, significantly reducing the financial burden for textbook purchases.
Telus Health Student Support- Free, confidential mental health and wellbeing support 24/7 with a counselor through the Student Support app. Telephone, video, and in-person counseling is available by appointment for short-term support. There are also self-directed resources including articles, videos, assessments, and more.
Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience- The mission of the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience is to advance human resilience to adversity by designing evidence-based solutions through interdisciplinary research, healing therapies, and community training and empowerment. This is accomplished through the work of our three divisions: Research, Healing, and Community Training & Empowerment.
The Multicultural Office for Student Access, Inclusiveness, and Community (MOSAIC) and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer (LGBTQ+) Resource Center are student advocated support services designed to cultivate the holistic development of historically and currently marginalized students at UCCS. All UCCS students can expect ongoing programs, trainings and workshops, leadership development, intentionally designed resources, and active advising from the full-time staff.
Disability Services & Testing Center- Disability Services promote an equitable and inclusive student experience by providing reasonable accommodations and advancing awareness and education within the campus community.
Veteran and Military Affairs- The Veteran and Military Affairs team is ready to serve all military-affiliated students at UCCS. Veteran and Military Affairs provide benefits processing, peer advising, success coaching, and social events.
Student Multicultural Coalition- The Multicultural Student Coalition is comprised of student groups that are focused on campus diversity and inclusion. These student groups create a sense of belonging and host diverse events throughout the year. This list includes the most active groups that are directly supported by MOSAIC.
Faculty Assembly Women’s Committee (FAWC) is an existing network of women and faculty who met regularly in alignment with the University of Colorado Faculty Council. FAWC addresses the concerns of women-identifying faculty.
Faculty Equity & Inclusion Committee (FEIC) addresses the needs of faculty of color on the UCCS campus and advocates for equity, diversity, and inclusion. FEIC advocates for social justice on behalf of minority faculty, staff, and students, and responds to societal issues that affect the campus community. Furthermore, FEIC provides a space for faculty to discuss campus climate, issues related to hiring, retention, and intellectual freedom.
Faculty Assembly Disability Committee (DISC) provides information for faculty at UCCS regarding disability, with a focus on better including and accommodating students with disabilities in your courses. These resources will be of use to faculty with disabilities and their allies, and any faculty member interested in diversity and inclusion.
Staff & Faculty PRIDE Committee strives for the advancement and advocacy for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community of the university through increasing the visibility of LGBTQIA+ groups as a presence and resource within UCCS and the wider community; advising on the inclusivity of LGBTQIA+ concerns within UCCS policies and procedures; supporting the education of UCCS staff, students and faculty specific to the LGBTQIA+ community; and supporting and advocating for UCCS LGBTQIA+ staff and students.
Women Identifying Staff Committee (WISC) was born out of shared experiences at the CU Women’s Succeeding Symposium and a desire to foster at UCCS the same energy and focus on issues uniquely faced by women in the University. We strive to create a safe space for women identifying staff members to voice frustrations, concerns, seek information and resources, find mentorship and validation and will in turn work to elevate the needs of women identifying staff members to campus and system leadership
Support for future academic staff
No
A brief description of the institution’s programs to support and prepare students from underrepresented groups for careers as faculty members:
---
Optional Fields
Yes
Does the institution offer housing options to accommodate the special needs of transgender and transitioning students?:
Yes
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:
DEI Campus Resources- https://dei.uccs.edu/dei-resources-cloned
DEI Support Resources- https://dei.uccs.edu/support-resources
Inclusive Spaces- https://dei.uccs.edu/resources/inclusive-spaces
DEI Offices & Committees- https://dei.uccs.edu/campus-support
DEI Student Organizations- https://dei.uccs.edu/student-organizations
MOSAIC- https://mosaic.uccs.edu/
OIE- https://equity.uccs.edu/
Gender Inclusive Housing- https://residence.uccs.edu/current-resident/about-housing/gender-inclusive-housing-information
DEI Support Resources- https://dei.uccs.edu/support-resources
Inclusive Spaces- https://dei.uccs.edu/resources/inclusive-spaces
DEI Offices & Committees- https://dei.uccs.edu/campus-support
DEI Student Organizations- https://dei.uccs.edu/student-organizations
MOSAIC- https://mosaic.uccs.edu/
OIE- https://equity.uccs.edu/
Gender Inclusive Housing- https://residence.uccs.edu/current-resident/about-housing/gender-inclusive-housing-information
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.