Priorities for the 2024/2025 Academic Year
After gathering feedback from network members, the committee has identified key focus areas aimed at enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the university. Based on this input, we have selected three main priorities for the 2024/2025 academic year. These priorities will address challenges related to staff recruitment, career progression, and creating safe spaces for ethnically minoritized staff. Below is a summary of these priorities, along with responsibilities, required data, steps, and suggestions for improvements for presenting to university leadership.
1. Inclusive Staff Recruitment
Steps Needed:
- Conduct workshops to assist candidates with applications and personal statements.
- Review recruitment language and processes to make them more inclusive and supportive of applicants.
- Consider providing more time for interview preparation and sharing questions in advance.
2. Mentoring & Coaching for Career Progression
Steps Needed:
- Map out differences in career progression between ethnically minoritized and white staff.
- Mandate senior staff to mentor ethnically minoritized colleagues to support their career development.
3. Safe Spaces for Ethnically Minoritized Staff
Steps Needed:
- Create safe spaces where ethnically minoritized staff can discuss concerns openly and confidentially.
- Appoint Race Equity Champions to advocate for staff and raise awareness of key issues.
These priorities aim to create a more inclusive, supportive, and equitable university environment, where staff from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to the university’s success.