Department of Entomology Mission Statement on Diversity and Inclusion:
Insects are incredibly diverse in number of species, morphology, life history, and behavior. Over 900,000 species have been described, and insects are roughly 80% of described species on Earth. Here in the Department of Entomology, we believe that having a diverse group of people working together strengthens our efforts to study this great diversity of insects. We are aware of the serious underrepresentation of many minority groups in the field of entomology and recognize our role in rectifying this disparity. We strive to foster a culture of inclusivity and community as we continually work toward improving ourselves and our department.
We value diversity and inclusion because:
- All people have the right to the full expression of their identities.
- Everyone deserves opportunities to flourish.
- Biological and cultural diversity are closely intertwined.
- Intellectual, educational, and cultural ‘monocultures’ are not able to meet the complex challenges of today.
- In an era of increasing globalization and demographic shifts, our department’s excellence in research, teaching, and outreach depends on our ability to interact effectively with diverse communities.
- Deepening our institutional commitment, competence, and understanding of diversity will contribute to the creativity and prestige of the department in all of its work.
Therefore, we are committed to:
- Establishing a culture that upholds University and department policies related to diversity and inclusion.
- Ensuring all individuals feel valued, respected, encouraged to flourish, and are unobstructed in their pursuit of excellence.
- Providing space for all voices to be heard in the process of crafting new policies at the department, college, and University level.
- Pursuing outreach and educational opportunities to reach audiences that reflect our national and local community diversity.
- Creating workplace and classroom experiences that are free of intolerance and coercive behaviors.
- Promoting multiculturalism as an understanding that the human experience includes but is not limited to: race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
- Advancing the principles of equal opportunity, affirmative action, and multiculturalism through our hiring processes that reflect evidence-based best practices in advancing diversity and equity (i.e. candidate recruitment, interview questions, search committee training, evaluation, leadership advancement, etc.)
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