UpDate - Vol. 11, No. 32, Page D4
May 21, 1992
Diversity
Courses develop diversity potential for campus

     Psychoanalyst Erich Fromm noted that the root of the word
"education" means "literally, to lead forth, or to bring out something
which is potentially present."
     Nurturing such potential for understanding and empathy with
others is the work of the Commision to Promote Racial and Cultural
Diversity's Diversity Education Task Force, co-chaired by Cecily
Sawyer Harmon, coordinator of the Employee Assistance and Wellness
Program, and Patricia A. Benton, manager of administrative services in
plant operations.
     Over the past year, the committee has presented an introductory
workshop to several University constituency groups, including salaried
staff, professionals, faculty,  administrators and most recently
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME)
workers.
     The workshop, which Harmon said might be thought of as "Diversity
101," allows individuals to explore their own attitudes and behaviors
about issue of diversity. The day-long program provides information
and discussion on individual and organizational attitudes and
behaviors that may be oppressive to members of under-represented
groups and also provides strategies for improving communication among
diverse groups of people.
     For those who have completed "101," the task force is working on
a follow-up or "201"-level workshop for the next academic year, Harmon
said.
     In an effort to meet differing needs around the campus, the task
force also designs specific programs upon request for offices or
groups in such areas as classism, racism, ableism, heterosexism or any
other topic that might be requested.
     For example, Harmon has been working with Judy Bailey of the
Center for Teaching Effectiveness to design and run a workshop for the
College of Agricultural Sciences at its request.
     This summer, Harmon said she hopes there will be another training
of the trainers workshop. Last June, 29 members of the University
community participated in this five-day session, and these graduates
have served as the facilitators for the diversity education programs
offered throughout the campus over this academic year.
     Increasing the diversity and number of trainers is a major goal
for the task force, since currently there is a shortage of
African-American and white men on the training team. "It's clear we
need a diverse group to promote diversity," Harmon said.
     Last summer also marked the first time that the New Student
Orientation included one hour designated specifically for diversity
training for all incoming students. The successful program will be
continued this summer for the incoming Class of 1996.
     Training the entire campus on diversity issues is a major
undertaking, but not one that Harmon finds daunting.
     "We've become cognizant that this educational process is going to
take some time," she said. "People have to process what they're
hearing to change their views and beliefs. But what better place than
at the University, since we're the vanguard for the
community-at-large."