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With this in mind, the invited authors provide the reader with new perspectives, incentives, and challenges. Clear arguments as to the benefits of reexamining pedagogy, the critical role of faculty, and an institution's goal for diversity are suggested throughout. We can no longer afford to focus only on increasing diversity on our campuses and on retention without simultaneously considering the implications of this growth and the possibilities to create a rich learning environment for all members of academe. The magazine is fortunate to include two national leaders in higher education who have made concerted efforts toward understanding the responsibility of the academy. They have advocated for introspection and action at their respective institutions, namely, Dr. William Kirwan, president of The Ohio State University and former president of the University of Maryland, and Dr. Arthur Levine, president of Teachers College at Columbia University. Their guiding words should be applauded. In this edition, the reader is reminded to recognize diversity in its broadest sense, incorporating all groups. Even within each group, there exist differences. Our definition no longer can be limited to cultural/racial differences alone. Articles by Dr. Kominars, Dr. Garcia, and Dr. Rose in the "campus life" section and Dr. Katz and Dr. Mathee in "Perspectives" provide us with material to assist us in expanding our definition more broadly. "In the classroom" section contributions by Dean Art Heise, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, and Dean Art Herriott, College of Arts and Sciences, identify specific challenges in building and maintaining a diverse student population and provide a model to retain it. The infusion of diversity in the curriculum through sustaining and creative methods is illustrated as well. Dr. Rosenberg, provost at Florida International University, emphasizes the important role that diversity should play when planning and initiating undergraduate curriculum review. A compilation of programs and centers housed at FIU has also been included. Additional information can be accessed through our Web site, www.fiu.edu. We conclude this issue with a thought-provoking piece prepared in 2000 by former Georgia state legislator, Dan Ponder Jr., which he read to his colleagues prior to a vote to enact a hate crime bill in his state. It reminds us of the dangers of prejudice and bigotry; it reminds us that knowledge is critical to overcoming these dangers; and it reminds us of our responsibility and ability to make a difference in reducing these debilitating forces in society. I hope this edition of Diversity Exchange will propel your journey into gathering and disseminating more knowledge regarding diversity among your colleagues, within your institutions, and in your personal lives. |
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As
we considered the fourth edition of Diversity Exchange magazine,
the first in the new millennium, our focus turned quickly to the
academy. Our previous edition dealt with the preparation of our
students to manage the world of diversity. However, to teach effectively
our students to manage their growing diverse environments and related
challenges, the learning communities must be intentional in their
preparation and transformation.
