Looking to Past Work to Build on Future Efforts

Saint Mary’s has worked on a number of efforts aimed at dialogue, increasing understanding and celebrating the human dignity of each person. Reviewing what has been done, what has worked well, and what can be improved are all part of the process of building strong future dialogue opportunities, programming and events, and providing helpful resources to students, faculty, and staff. Highlights of past efforts include:

Resources and Training

  • A bias reporting webpage was created and includes a bias reporting form.

  • Definitions and policies on harassment and discrimination are in the student handbook and can be found online.

  • Bystander intervention training – Staff in student affairs, student success, campus ministry, etc., participated in the training summer 2020.

  • Faculty learning such as a Faculty Advance Day, which included a presentation on “Responding to Racism: A Lasallian Dialogue and Call to Action,” by Brother Ernest J. Miller. This included a discussion on pedagogical approaches to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom.

  • AXIS: Journal of Lasallian Higher Education – The March 2020 special issue was on social justice and Lasallian higher education today. Learn more.

Programming and Events

  • Purposeful conversations — Various panel discussions, town hall meetings, and listening sessions were held with a focus on understanding and celebrating inclusivity

  • A Seat at the Table — Panels/forums are being held for graduate and professional students to discuss matters, including race and diversity in higher education and pathways to academic and career success

  • Religious celebrations — Special Masses were celebrated with intentions for racial harmony, peace, and understanding

  • Interfaith events — Interfaith/inter-religious and ecumenical outreach increased with discussion groups, prayer experiences, and volunteer opportunities

Student Success Initiatives

  • First Generation Initiative (FGI)—This program offers structured academic, financial, and social support for first-generation students. This initiative goes beyond college access and focuses on college readiness and retention in order to help first-generation students successfully complete a college education.

  • Countdown to College (C2C)—The FGI program collaborates with admissions and the academic community to offer a four-year summer academic boot camp designed for graduates of Saint Mary’s middle school and high school partners — Lasallian and Catholic schools located in state and regional locations that serve low income, high-potential Latino, Native American, and African-American students.