This episode delves deep into the challenges of diversifying student bodies in higher education, especially in the wake of SCOTUS decisions on Affirmative Action. Dr. Thomas Parham and Dr. Dilcie Perez, stalwarts from the California State University system, bring their expertise and insights to the table.
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Drowning in Diversity Debates
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Higher education has always been a battleground of ideologies and policies. The introduction of Affirmative Action intended to level the playing field, but its judicial scrutiny has thrown institutions into a quandary. How does one maintain a diverse student body while abiding by the rules?
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For the California State University system, this is more than just a theoretical debate. Prop 209 left its mark, challenging institutions to innovate and find ways to promote diversity without relying on race-based decisions in admissions.
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The responsibility isn't just on the institutions. Dr. Parham, referencing the literary greats Frantz Fanon and James Baldwin, emphasizes the role of society in shaping educational experiences. The legacy of generations past is heavy on the present one, which seeks to redefine inclusivity on campuses.
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CSU's Symposium: Bridging Aspirations with Realities in Higher Education
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The gravity of the situation was felt profoundly during CSU's Juneteenth symposium. As Dr. Perez recounted, the voices of Black students, faculty, and staff highlighted the disconnect between the aspirational goals of institutions and the realities on the ground. The symposium wasn't just an event; it was a call to action.
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Yet, the scope of the challenge isn't limited to students alone. Faculty, staff, and every stakeholder in the educational ecosystem play a role in shaping the campus climate. Diversity, as Dr. Parham eloquently puts it, is more than just demographics.
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Redefining Success and Inclusion
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The intertwined fates of students, faculty, and staff necessitate a holistic approach. Success in one domain invariably affects the other. And this reciprocal relationship is what the CSU aims to strengthen. Their Black Student Success workgroup, although centered on Black student success, is not a siloed initiative. It's a blueprint, a model for broader inclusivity.
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At its heart, the approach isn't just about numbers. It's about creating environments where everyone feels they belong, where aspirational visions of institutions align more closely with the reality on the ground.
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Innovation in Inclusivity
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CSU's strategies are groundbreaking in many ways. From early outreach to partnerships with community-based organizations, the efforts aim to foster lifelong relationships. The goal isn't just to admit students but to support them, ensuring their success inside and outside the classroom.
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Dr. Perez's take on the matter is unequivocal. Institutions have a responsibility that goes beyond the classroom walls. And for CSU, that responsibility is being shouldered with conviction and vision.
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Three Recommendations for Higher Education Leaders and Boards
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At a Glance
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Read the transcript on the website \u2192
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About our Guests
Thomas A. Parham
Thomas A. Parham, president of CSU Dominguez Hills since March 2018.
Dilcie Perez
Dilcie Perez is Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Student Affairs.
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About the Host
Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed\xae, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm\u2019s website: https://changinghighered.com/.
#HigherEducation #UniversityDiversity #AffirmativeAction