Diversity Forum on
November 29 and 30

It’s the “D” word – and you’d be right to think it’s not usually uttered around polite company. The surprise may be this: there aren’t four letters, but nine.

It’s DIVERSITY, and on Monday, November 29, and Tuesday, November 30, a panel of faculty and staff will be on hand on address any questions, comments and concerns about this hot potato topic. In addition to discussing exactly what diversity means and what types of diversity issues students might face at Cuesta, the Diversity Forum will address any concerns submitted beforehand. All questions can be written down anonymously via a form provided by General Services (Building 2700). The deadline for questions is November 16, with the meetings planned from 1:30 to 3:00 on both days in Room 5401. For forms and/or more information, contact Maryanne Zarycka at ext. 3997 or Marge Collier at ext. 2687.

Cultural Diversity News and Goals:
Comprised of students, faculty and staff, the Cultural Diversity/Student Equity (CD/SE) Committee supports and safeguards cultural diversity and student equity as an integral component of life at Cuesta.

CD/SE has made suggestions in the following areas:
• Increase understanding of, and sensitivity to, cultural and religious diversity, sexual orientation, physical ability, class and gender equity. This can be accomplished through training programs, learning activities and other services.
• Promote philosophies, policies and practices that enhance inclusiveness, equity and diversity sensitivity.
Committee goals are:
• Through services and training, continue to collaborate with the President and her office in enhancing Cuesta College’s responses to diversity and equity issues.
• Develop/promote campus events that focus on diversity and equity.
• Author a proposal to establish a campus multicultural center that will offer services which will include mentoring of underrepresented students; developing educational events, and providing a “safe” place for the campus community.
CD/SE encourages suggestions and involvement from everyone at Cuesta.

To find out more about the Committee and diversity initiatives, log on to http://academic.cuesta.edu/cultural