Editor’s note: The following message was sent to the entire Colorado State University community on Sept. 23, 2019.
Dear Colleagues,
We, the academic leadership of Colorado State, were moved by our students’ voices and resolutions last Wednesday evening at the ASCSU Senate and by their peaceful protest the next day. We were further inspired by President McConnell’s address announcing the Race, Bias, and Equity Initiative. We expect this to be transformational, intended to achieve systemic, sustainable change, building on the work of those who have long dedicated themselves to creating an inclusive climate here where all are welcomed, valued, and affirmed.
Incidents of bias and racism on our campus have been painful for many and deeply disturbing to all of us. We are resolved to redouble our efforts to make Colorado State a place where we honor and hold ourselves accountable for adhering to our Principles of Community, and where we are role models through our leadership, research, teaching, and service.
We know that culture transformation is difficult and long-term work that will involve the entire campus community. We believe that academics are at the heart of this university, at the heart of every university; as the academic leadership of CSU we resolve to contribute to this Initiative in a vigorous and impactful way. We are very thankful for President McConnell’s leadership here, and we are ready to not just play our part but to play a leadership role in making her vision for our future a reality.
Rick Miranda, Executive Vice President and Provost
Ajay Menon, Dean, College of Agriculture
Beth Walker, Dean, College of Business
David McLean, Dean, Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering
Lise Youngblade, Dean, College of Health and Human Sciences
Ben Withers, Dean, College of Liberal Arts
John Hayes, Dean, Warner College of Natural Resources
Jan Nerger, Dean, College of Natural Sciences
Mark Stetter, Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Mary Stromberger, Dean of the Graduate School
Pat Burns, Dean of the Libraries
Tim Gallagher, Chair of Faculty Council
Dan Bush, Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs
Kathleen Fairfax, Vice Provost for International Affairs
Laura Jensen, Vice Provost for Planning and Effectiveness
Kelly Long, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Affairs
