University of North Carolina, Pembroke
PA-4: Diversity and Equity Coordination

DIVERSITY COMMITTEE FOR COMMUNITIES OF INTERESTS VISION STATEMENT To promote and sustain a cohesive and inclusive environment among the university and local community, that truly values and embraces diversity, groups, cultures, differences, and perspectives within the framework of the Academic environment. MISSION STATEMENT The Diversity Committee for Communities of Interests (DCCOI) will be an integral part of the Office for Diversity and Inclusion and will take a leadership role in providing programs, services, and resources that support the office’s and university’s mission. Serving as a catalyst, DCCOI will develop policies, practices, and programs that represent and enhance the University's diverse student populations. In collaboration with other university offices and community entities, the DCCOI will seek to improve the overall educational, social, and cultural experiences of UNCP’s underrepresented groups. The ultimate purpose of the committee will be to ensure that students are informed and encouraged to take advantage of the university’s and community’s academic, cultural, social, and economic resources, thus providing an atmosphere of life long learning. COMMITTEE COMPOSITION Dr. Kevin Freeman – Political Science Dr. Sonali Jain – Sociology and Criminal Justice Dr. Michele Fazio – Literature Ms. Nicolette Campos – Accessibility Resource Center Dr. Shilpa Regan – Psychology Mr. Virgil Oxendine – North Carolina Indian Housing Authority Dr. Robert L. Canida, II – Diversity and Inclusion and Committee Chair DCCOI has created the following events/programs: 1. Diversity Dialogues 2. Diversity Survey (student and staff) 3. Diversity newsletter

Diversity Dialogues has become an annual program offered by the Office for Diversity and Inclusion’s Diversity Committee for Communities of Interest. Diversity Dialogues’ primary purpose is to share and provide a learning environment, whereby students, staff, faculty, and community can create a sense of community, enhance their cultural awareness, knowledge and skills around the wide spectrum of diversity. Anyone attending a Diversity Dialogue must be respectful of different worldviews, beliefs, willing to step outside of their comfort zone, and an openness to learn. We welcome students, staff, faculty, and community persons to facilitate a Diversity Dialogue.

http://studentaffairs.uncp.edu/diversity-inclusion/diversity-and-social-justice/diversity-committee-for-communities-of-interests/unison-diversity-newsletter/ http://studentaffairs.uncp.edu/diversity-inclusion/understanding-diversity/