Category Archives: News

Celebrating Dana Beteet Daniels

On June 21, 2023, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in partnership with colleagues and friends congratulated and celebrated the retirement of Dana Beteet Daniels on over 20+ years of service to the institution.

Dana, who officially retired on July 7th, most recently served as the Title IX Coordinator and Chief Equity Officer and will always remain an integral part of the ODEI Team. We look forward to your next journey!

https://blogs.umsl.edu/news/2022/09/19/tritons-united-programming/

https://blogs.umsl.edu/news/2021/12/13/tritons-united/

https://news.stlpublicradio.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2018-07-18/area-universities-grapple-with-increased-attention-to-title-ix-in-light-of-michigan-state-metoo#stream/0

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine honors UMSL with sixth Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award

“INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine has once again recognized that ongoing work, naming UMSL one of 103 recipients of the prestigious 2022 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award. The national honor recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion.” Read more about the recognition here.

Spring 2021 Newsletter

UMSL respects, inspires, engages, values, promotes and offers opportunities to our campus community. To this end, we remain excited about the work that continues to happen here at the University!

Check out our Spring 2021 newsletter here: Spring 2021 Newsletter

Fall 2020 Newsletter

“The future depends on what we do in the present.”  – Mahatma Gandhi  

Welcome to Fall Semester 2020!!

It is an honor to serve as the new Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and to work collectively with each of you in order to maintain an inclusive environment for all here at UMSL.

I am excited about this new opportunity and the expanded role of the office. Yet, I remain cognizant that with the great work that happens on this campus, there is still more to do. We are facing uncertainty as we navigate the space we are in-Covid 19, racial injustices, socio-economic disadvantages, transphobia and this “newness” will challenge us to think beyond what is customary, what is familiar to ways that better serve the direction of the institution and our campus community.

Every interaction that I have, every conversation that takes place, brings encouragement that we are positioned to make impactful and long-lasting positive changes. We have a long road ahead of us, but I remain confident that we will get there together  (crawling…walking…running…driving-maybe with a little road rage).

I look forward to what this academic year brings. Take care.

Sincerely,

Tanisha Stevens


 

 

It is with sadness that we announce the retirement of Dorothea Scott. Dorothea served as the Compliance Manager-EEO Programs, ensuring the campus remained in compliance with federal, state, and local laws as it relates to employment policies and personnel actions. Prior to starting her career at UMSL, Dorothea worked for the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs for 25 years. Dorothea received a Masters Degree in Communication Studies  from the University of Kansas,  a Bachelors Degree in Speech Communication from Oklahoma Christian College and an Associate Degree in Speech Communication from Southwestern Christian College.

Dorothea has been an integral part of the office and has been a welcoming presence to us all, a confidant to many and a reassuring voice to all those who enter Woods Hall. Her knowledge (and humor) is valuable and her hard work, commitment and dedication to UMSL and to the UM System is admirable.

To quote Dorothea “Continued blessings and much success to you…Be blessed and stay safe.

Help me in congratulating Dorothea. Thank you for your years of hard work and dedication to our team!! You will be missed.


 

UMSL a recipient of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine’s 2020 HEED Award 

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine named UMSL as one of 90 recipients of its prestigious 2020 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award – a national honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“The HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees — and best practices for both — continued leadership support for diversity, and other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” said Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We take a detailed approach to reviewing each application in deciding who will be named a HEED Award recipient. Our standards are high, and we look for institutions where diversity and inclusion are woven into the work being done every day across their campus.”

Read more about the award 


 

We are happy to offer a full schedule of online professional development programs for the Fall/Spring 2020-2021. Please visit our blog for the full schedule.

  • NEW! Diversity 101 Synchronous and Self-Paced Courses – In addition to the standard format on Canvas,  Diversity 101 is now being offered both as synchronous course (via zoom) and a self-paced course! Click here for more information.
  • NEW! Anti-Racism Learning & Discussion Series. Faculty & Staff will meeting via Zoom monthly to discuss readings and videos.  Click here for more information.
  • NEW! Constructive Communication Across Differences Three-part Series

 

Last month, the ODEI hosted the inaugural meeting of the Diversity Alliance Network. The Diversity Alliance is a network of over 40 faculty and staff who support diversity and inclusion efforts within academic departments and administrative units at UMSL. The purpose of the Diversity Alliance Network is to share information, build collaborations, enhance the flow of communication about DEI programs/initiatives, and to provide a supportive environment as we continue to promote and enhance diversity and inclusion across campus. Future ODEI newsletters will feature stories about the work of Diversity Alliance members. Stay tuned!


 

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”

Sex-based discrimination occurs when a person has been treated inequitably, based on sex, pregnancy, gender identity or gender expression. Sex discrimination is prohibited by university policy and federal law in educational programs, activities and employment, receiving federal financial assistance. The university policy applies to all students, employees, volunteers and visitors at the university and prohibits sexual harassment, sexual misconduct and other forms of sex discrimination as defined in Section 600.020 of the Collected Rules and Regulations.

The Department of Education (DOE) implemented regulations to Title IX, which went into effect August 14, 2020. Chapter 600 of the University’s Collected Rules and Regulations was updated to ensure compliance with the federal regulations. Over the next several months, we will introduce the most significant changes required by the recent implemented regulations. The first significant regulatory change is the definition of:

Sexual Harassment Defined

The DOE has provided a definition of sexual harassment which is specific and required to meet one of the following criteria:

  • Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the recipient’s (UMSL) educational program or activity.
  • Quid Pro Quo (This for That)
  • Sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and/or stalking as defined under the U.S. Codes.

The DOE and the United States Supreme Court have found that sexual harassment is a form of sexual discrimination, prohibited by Title IX. Prior guidance defined sexual harassment as “unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature” that may include “unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.” Prior guidance and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) pushed schools to address the harassment “before” it became severe or pervasive, in order to help prevent the development of a hostile environment.

In our next newsletter, we will address mandated reporting and the formal complaint.


See Information About…

Report-a-Barrier – Please use our new online reporting system to report any barriers to accessibility on UMSL’s campus or website.

ODEI has a New Home! –  Our new office will be open to visitors as soon as all COVID 19 restrictions have been removed. Our new address is:

University of Missouri- St. Louis
152 JC Penney
One University Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63121-4400


Chancellor’s Cultural Diversity Council Events, Scholarship, and Fellowship Announcements

During our Fall CCDC meeting, numerous council members shared some awesome opportunities. Check out the announcements below!

Scholarship/Fellowship Opportunity

Opportunity Scholars Program 

Applications are open for the Opportunity Scholars Program. The Opportunity Scholars Program provides a unique opportunity for St. Louis-area high school students to receive an all-inclusive, four-year scholarship to the University of Missouri–St. Louis, and opportunities to develop career experience. For more information visit: http://www.umsl.edu/~honors/Opportunity%20Scholars/

International Fellowship Program

Greetings!

There is still time to apply for the ! Applications are due to Dr. Cassidy Thompson (cassidythompson@umsl.edu) on December 1!

UMSL Global is pleased to announce the relaunch of the International Fellowship Program. Supporting the international research efforts of our talented UMSL faculty members is a central mission of the UMSL Global team. The 2020 International Fellowship program is designed to strengthen UMSL’s international efforts by supporting international collaborative research and creative outputs through a one-time fellowship award of up to $5,000.00. The program aims to benefit all faculty engaging in or presenting research/creative outputs that are international in scope and who may need to supplement their funding.

For information on how to apply, click on the 2020 International Fellowship Application tab at http://www.umsl.edu/global/engagement/fellows.html.

We look forward to reading your proposals!

Warmest Wishes!

Events

STITCH webinar Series

Summit to Improve Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Collaborative Health Care Webinar Series (Fridays as noon, October 16 through December 4). If you register as a “community member”/non-health care provider, registration is free.

Here is the direct registration link: https://web.cvent.com/event/45e81e59-09b8-4b46-b89d-d66fdddce863/regProcessStep1

Able-Disable Partnership Sponsored Events

Title: Nothing About us Without us: A Discussion About the Autistic Experience 

Date: 2020-11-11

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (CDT)

Link: https://umsystem.zoom.us/j/98650657404?pwd=WCtLVEM3YzVJZ090VWNaU2JTYmNNQT09

Passcode: 542677

Title: Virtual LearnAbility: The Intersection of Virtual Learning and Disability 

Date: 2020-11-18

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (CDT)

Zoom Link: https://umsystem.zoom.us/j/94493074427?pwd=cDU2emhTWTZ6VDlLcU9mL1hGZzhKUT09

Password: 976600

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 

Domestic Violence Awareness Month pictureThis is a friendly reminder from the Title IX and Equity team that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  While many of us continue to work and study from home, it is important to remember and assist those who remain in unsafe situations at home.  All campus employees, who do not have the expectation of confidentiality, are mandated reporters per 600.020 of the Collected Rules and Regulations. 

Click here to download the Title IX and Equity brochure with campus and Picture of Title IX Brochurecommunity resources

For anyone needing domestic violence resources (for themselves or others), please feel to reach out to the Title IX and Equity Office within the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.  Dana and Jessica are both happy to assist in any way they can.

 

ODEI Allies are Awarded for Inclusive Excellence

ODEI is proud to celebrate three campus leaders who were awarded for excellence in their endeavors to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion on UMSL’s campus and beyond.  These leaders are critical partners to our office and our collective efforts to work towards inclusive excellence.  Learn more about their amazing work below.

Dr. Marie Mora – Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Dr. Mora was honored for her efforts along with 11 other recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. “It’s a tremendous honor – and a humbling one – to be recognized along with these other inspiring mentors,” Mora said. “This recognition also confirms my fundamental belief in how one person can make a difference to improve lives, especially when we reach positions to be able to help others achieve the goals they set for themselves. I have devoted a significant part of my career to increase diversity, access and inclusion in the economics profession, in other STEM fields, and in higher education more broadly.”

Click here for full story

Dr. Natissia Small – Assistant Provost for Access and Academic Support

Dr. Natissia Small will serve as the principal investigator for the new $1.3 million TRIO Student Support Services grant intended for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds – low-income individuals, first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities – as they progress from middle school through to post-baccalaureate programs. Its objective is to increase, by at least 5 percent, the rates at which students persist from one academic year to the next, remain in good academic standing and ultimately earn their degrees. ““We are excited to receive the SSS grant award as it will provide us the opportunity to further meet a unique group of transfer student populations to be served,” Small said. “The TRIO SSS funding allows us to further expand our efforts in meeting academic and non-academic needs of students to overcome barriers that impede degree completion.”

Click here for full story

Dr. Jerome Morris – E. Desmond Lee Endowed Professor of Urban Education

Dr. Morris was named the recipient of the Lyle M. Spencer Research Award. Morris has studied the impact of school reforms, as well as the links between race, social class and the geography of educational opportunities and Black communities in the South for more than 20 years. He will use the $1 million prize to investigate his theory of communally bonded schooling in three local school districts. “What I’m hoping from this work is that from studying these communities, we will have a better sense of those factors that are conducive to inform this communally bonded model,” Morris said. “Some of the work I’ve done was based on elementary schools. Now, I’m incorporating middle and high schools into that theoretical research. We will have a better sense of what communally bonded schools look like.”

Click here for full story

Congratulations for these well-deserved accolades and many thanks for all that you do to support diversity, equity, and inclusion at UMSL!

 

Virtual Gathering for Racial Unity Recap

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On June 18th, the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion hosted the Virtual Gathering for Racial Unity, an opportunity for individuals to come together, process and share through a panel discussion with questions derived from the campus community. What was evident is that current events are painful reminders of racial oppression that has plagued the nation since its inception.

Nationwide protests have become calls for action, for systemic changes to dismantle racism. We know that there is more to do. While we’ve long understood the need to enhance diversity and inclusion, we now must hold ourselves accountable to making the necessary changes for truly fostering an inclusive environment. We must be committed to recognizing that the worth of all individuals is at the core of inclusion. It also means that we cannot truly be inclusive while students, faculty, and staff of color are marginalized in our institutions.

The virtual gathering prompted reflection about how UMSL should rise the challenges we now face. The gathering, the first of more to come, highlighted the need for action, the need to commit to meaningful, systemic changes. The depth of questions and comments made it clear that UMSL community is ready for the change.

As a community, we have to move towards a deeper understanding of diversity, of equity, of inclusion and to foster an environment that values the diverse perspectives that makes UMSL who we are. As we continue the conversations, it is imperative to recognize the collective efforts that are already taking place, as well as acknowledge the work that needs to be done here at UMSL and collectively commit to taking action.

In my new role as Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, I look forward to working with the campus community to take this collective action. In the coming weeks, I will share my ideas and plans, as well as information regarding our next virtual gathering.

Sincerely,

Tanisha Stevens

Dr. Tanisha Stevens

Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion