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Messages from AVP/SDO

Welcome to the ODEI communications page. The following sections contain archived messages from the AVP/SDO to the campus, whether it is to faculty and staff, students, or the entire SMC campus community. 

Note: These sections are past communications and may not be entirely up to date on current communications from ODEI. Please watch for and read emails, newsletters, social media posts, and events as ODEI messages the SMC community. 

AVP/SDO Campus Messages

Launch of the HSI Website

Dear Saint Mary’s community,

I am pleased to announce the launch of our new Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) website, a project that has been a long time in the making. This initiative reflects the grassroots efforts of our campus community to create a space that supports and uplifts our multifaceted Latinx and Latine identities.

The website was made possible thanks to the dedication and collaboration of various members of our community, including members of the Access and Equity group and the newly formed HSI Advisory Council. I want to especially recognize Gabby Bermudez who helped with the initial design, Daniela Rojas, our amazing MICAH intern who helped me build the pages, and many others who contributed their time and expertise.

Here’s what you can expect from the HSI website:

  • Campus Resources and Support
    Discover departments, centers, and initiatives that offer culturally enriching experiences and tailored support for our Latinx students.
  • Showcasing Achievements
    The site highlights the creative work, academic successes, and activism of our diverse Latinx community.
  • Centering Students
    True to our mission as an HSI, the website ensures that our commitment to “servingness” remains intentional and impactful.

I am proud to share that this website is intentionally and unapologetically bilingual, reflecting the linguistic diversity of our community and ensuring that it is accessible to all.

This website is just one of the many initiatives that the HSI Advisory Council will continue developing and working on. The HSI Advisory Council will play a vital role in shaping our strategies and ensuring that we continue to create a supportive and inclusive environment for our Latinx students.

We look forward to sharing more updates on the council’s work and upcoming initiatives in the spring semester.

You can visit the website here: https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/about/bienvenidos-la-universidad-saint-marys-college-de-california

Warmly,

María Luisa Ruiz

Senior Academic Diversity Officer

 

Escala SMC Invitation

Dear colleagues,

As noted in the last ODEI newsletter, Saint Mary’s College recently took a significant step toward strengthening its service to Latinx students by participating in the ESCALA Moving Towards Servingness (MTS) retreat, a three-day intensive program focused on improving campus-wide efforts for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). A team of 15 faculty, staff, and students, with the support of the Office of Academic Affairs, engaged in this retreat to deepen their understanding of how to better serve Latinx students and drive institutional change.

The team has been meeting weekly to move forward on action plans that are a step forward to visibilize and instutionalize HIS initiatives at SMC.

We invite you to join us on Friday November 15 from 9-10:30 PST on zoom (see attached flyer) for a “Celebration of Learning” at which the Saint Mary’s team will be presenting their HSI plans.  We would love to have the community hear about the work we’ve been engaged in since August.

Hope to see you there!
Warmly,

María Luisa Ruiz (co-lead)

Amaury Avalos (co-lead)

 

New Bias Reporting Form & Process

Dear Saint Mary’s Community, 

 

We are writing to share a newly revised Bias Response landing page and intake form. On the landing page, you will also find information about what to expect when filing a report. 

Effective immediately, the new Bias Response Form is open and a new streamlined process will ensure that we are addressing reported bias incidents in a timely manner. We have listened to the campus community and are hopeful that we will be more diligent in a manner that conveys the seriousness and care regarding how each bias incident report will be handled. 

Once filing a bias report you can expect a response from either the Dr. Laura Lyndon (AVP/Dean of Students) or Dr. Terri Jett (AVP/Senior Diversity Officer) indicating receipt and initial thoughts on the most appropriate process towards resolution. Please note that we will stay in communication with the person filing the bias report to ensure full transparency.

If there are any additional questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. 

Dr. Terri Jett (trj3@stmarys-ca.edu)

Associate Vice President/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Dr. Laura Lyndon (lkl3@stmarys-ca.edu)

Associate Vice President & Dean of Students, Division of Student Life

 

Introducing Dr. Terri Jett, Our New AVP/Senior Diversity Officer Jan 2024

Dear Saint Mary’s College community,

I’m pleased to announce that Dr. Terri Jett will be joining Saint Mary’s in the role of Associate Vice President/Senior Diversity Officer (AVP/SDO). Dr. Jett, a Bay Area native who will be returning to her native California after a distinguished career at Butler University in Indiana, will join our campus community on April 1, 2024.

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Dr. Terri Jett

The AVP/SDO position here at Saint Mary’s is one that represents the heart of the 360-year educational history and tradition established by Saint John Baptist de La Salle. I consider it foundational to our work here at Saint Mary’s, and fundamental to our character as a Lasallian Catholic institution of higher education for the 21st century. 

Dr. Jett has already expressed interest in learning more about this heritage and how she can help us all animate our core principles of faith in the presence of God, quality education, respect for all persons, inclusive community, and commitment to the poor and social justice. 

Dr. Jett brings with her an extraordinary academic background and a wealth of experience as an educator. She possesses a strong desire to continue her career in a faith-based institution with a mission to serve those who would otherwise not have access to higher education, and to strengthen belonging as a hallmark of the Saint Mary’s experience.  

At Butler, Dr. Jett serves as a Professor of Political Science/Peace and Conflict Studies. She is also a member of the Affiliate Faculty of Race, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, as well as Faculty Director for the Hub for Black Affairs and Community Engagement. For 2021-22, Dr. Jett was named a Distinguished Faculty Award recipient for her lasting contributions to Butler University.

Dr. Jett’s achievements, academic accomplishments, scholarship and publications, community involvement, and professional memberships are too vast for me to list here. I will note, however, that she was the first Black woman to earn tenure at Butler, and in 2020 she became the first Black woman to be promoted to full professor. I invite you to learn more about her impressive background by reading her C.V. 

Dr. Jett has embraced a wide variety of critical roles. At Butler, she has been a member of the steering committee of the Race, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program, a Faculty Senator, and a Faculty Fellow at the Desmond Tutu Peace Lab Think Tank. She also served as Department Chair from 2007-2014 and resumed the role on an interim basis during the current Chair’s sabbatical leave.

I was struck by a comment by one of her Butler colleagues: “One of the many outstanding aspects of Dr. Jett’s career has been her innovative spirit and her ability to develop undergraduate experiences that invite students into her areas of academic investigation,” wrote Terri Carney, Professor of Spanish, Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at Butler. 

Although Dr. Jett will be responsible for leading, advancing, and ensuring accountability for our DEI efforts and their integration throughout our campus, we are all responsible for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are fortunate to have Dr. Jett to lead those efforts, establish benchmarks, chart our progress, measure outcomes, and evaluate institutional change. 

I would also like to express my great gratitude for the work of the search committee, and the leadership of Dr. María Luisa Ruiz throughout the process, as well as the students and other members of the SMC community who helped make this a successful search. The behind-the-scenes labor involved in our Open Forum events, as well as other aspects of the search process, go far beyond individual job descriptions, so I very much appreciate the efforts of those individuals and the work of Greenwood/Asher & Associates for their important contributions. 

Search committee:

  • María Luisa Ruiz, Chair, Interim Senior Diversity Officer
  • Ameera Ibrahim, SEBA Faculty Representative
  • Rebecca Anguiano, KSOE Faculty Representative
  • José Feito, SOS Faculty Representative
  • Sunayani Bhattacharya, SOLA Faculty Representative
  • Carrie Davis, Director, Mission and Ministry
  • Aeleah Soine, Vice Provost for Student Success
  • James Scuito, Vice President for Student Life
  • Jennifer Pigza, Director, CILSA, CCIE chair (interim)
  • Kalilah Epperson-Lee ASSMC Student Representative
  • Karin Hein, Staff & HR Support (non-voting)

María Luisa will continue in her role as Interim Senior Diversity Officer throughout this academic year and will support the transition when Dr. Jett joins us in April. I am exceptionally grateful to her for her work.

Please join me in thanking the search committee members and in congratulating and welcoming Dr. Terri Jett to Saint Mary’s! 

Sincerely,

Brother Thomas Jones, FSC

Interim President

SMC Against Racial Discrimination: Campus Protest for Change March 2024

Sent also on behalf of Senior Staff 

Dear Saint Mary’s campus community,

Today, March 21, is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, an observance of the United Nations. This day also marks the anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre, which commemorates Human Rights Day, a public holiday in South Africa, when 69 protestors were killed by open fire while peacefully protesting against anti-Black pass laws in their town in South Africa during the Apartheid era.

In recognition of this significant day, and as we also recognize there is still work to be done to eliminate racism in our society and on our campus, the Black Leadership Coalition has scheduled SMC Against Racial Discrimination: Campus Protest for Change from 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn to bring attention to these experiences and conditions.

In solidarity and to help facilitate widespread participation, we would encourage our faculty members to pause their academic classes and other activities so that students have the option to attend. We also encourage department managers and administrators to set aside time this afternoon to allow staff to attend.

Thank you for joining us in standing up for our shared values of inclusion and respect for all persons. 

Sincerely,

Brother Thomas Jones, FSC

Interim President

Senior Staff:

Corey Cook, Executive Vice President and Provost

Sandra Kim, Vice President for Finance and Administration

Kevin Browne, Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management

Isidro Farias, Vice President for Facilities Services

David Ford, Executive Assistant to the President

Christine Hutchins, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

James Johnson, Chief Information Officer

Mike Matoso, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics

María Luisa Ruiz, Interim Senior Diversity Officer

Jim Sciuto, Vice President for Student Life

Frances Sweeney, Vice President for Mission

 

Incident of hateful vandalism at Library March 2024

Dear Saint Mary’s campus community,

Yesterday, February 29, an individual discovered a swastika carved into a desk on the second floor of the Saint Albert Hall Library on campus. After being discovered, Campus Safety and Facilities Services were immediately dispatched to document and remove the vandalism. Since the act constitutes a hate crime, the hateful vandalism was also reported to the Moraga Police Department.

This hate crime is an attack on our campus community and the Lasallian core values we hold dear. To be very clear: we condemn this toxic act of hate. We recognize that such acts cause harm to not only the targeted individuals or groups, but to our entire community. We stand in solidarity with all our students, faculty, and staff, and any groups whom this egregious act was meant to threaten or diminish. 

For those who may need them, please remember that SMC offers professional counselors for our students in Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), and resources for all campus community members such as the Mission & Ministry Center, and the Intercultural Center. Students who are in residence on campus can also receive support from their Resident Directors and Resident Advisors. Faculty and staff may also access support through our Employee Assistance Program.  

This recent incident can serve as an opportunity to remind ourselves of the foundational principles of the Saint Mary’s campus community. Thank you for joining us as we condemn an act of hate while reaffirming our respect for all persons and rejection of intolerance, bigotry, or discrimination in any form. 

Sincerely,

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D.

Class of 1996

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Jim Sciuto, Ed.D.

Class of 2000 & 2022

Vice President for Student Life

If you see someone engaging in acts that are offensive, that damage property, or could harm others, please report to Campus Safety at 925-631-4282. If you wish to remain anonymous, download the Gael Safe app and report to Campus Safety through the App. Incidents of bias can also be reported to our Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT). BIRT’s primary role is to respond to bias incidents and hate crimes as well as recommend preventative education. BIRT can provide resources as well as options for moving forward with a complaint.

Our Lady Guadalupe OLG 2024

Saint Mary’s College Community,

One of our time-honored celebrations of community, faith, and culture is the Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration. This celebration has typically been an “OLG Week” which leads into our Liturgy and BIG Fiesta held on the Friday before Finals week.

We are excited to announce that this will be the 13th year we celebrate La Virgen at Saint Mary’s College. In keeping with our tradition, we will have several events that lead up to our December 6 culminating celebration.

You and your families are invited to join us for all the events listed on the flyer below. We especially would like to invite our entire community to the events on Friday, December 6: 

Danza Azteca | 5:30 p.m. | Chapel Plaza

Procession Across Campus | 6 p.m. | Starting on Chapel Plaza

Liturgy | 7 p.m. | SMC Chapel

FIESTA | 8:15 p.m. | Soda Center

Although these events are free for all to attend, we will be recording SMC ID numbers (to help us with data collection) for all staff, faculty, and students. Alums, families, and friends of Saint Mary’s are also welcome to attend (no SMC ID needed).

If you have any questions, please reach out to Eddie Ventura (edv1@stmarys-ca.edu) in the Mission and Ministry Center.

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OLG Poster 2025

 

 

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OLG Pster 2 2025

 

Brown Bag Lunch Movie October

Good Morning, Everyone

 
Just sending a reminder regarding the Brown Bag Lunchtime Movie event - a partnership between ODEI and the Library. Take some time in the middle of the week, and the middle of the day to relax, be in community with your colleagues and enjoy a political/Halloween film! 
 
Have a great day!
Terri
 

ODEI-Library Partnership - "Brown Bag Movie Break"

Good Morning, Everyone

The SMC ODEI office in partnership with our amazing SMC Library is providing a great opportunity for you to take a moment out of your Wednesday once-a-month and enjoy a film. Please bring your lunch to watch a great politics-related film this semester and to relax a little among your SMC friends. Please see the attached flyer for the films and the unique film-viewing library location. 
 
Look forward to seeing you starting next Wednesday! All our welcome!
 
Be well,
Terri
 

Lunch showing of "Green Book" June 18, 2024

Good Morning, Everyone

 
This is a gentle reminder to join me today in the library on the second floor for a lunch-time viewing of "Green Book." It is okay if you did not bring your lunch, I have brought in a couple of salads, sandwiches and of course, some chicken (tenders), in honor of a scene in the film. So take a moment out of your work day, for yourself, and come be in community to watch a great film in honor of our Juneteenth holiday, which is tomorrow. 
 
Take care, 
Terri
 

MLK Day 2025

 
Please view the SMC ODEI MLK Day 2025 Statement below for this important day. 

 

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In 1968, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. traveled to Memphis, TN to prepare for a march in support of striking sanitation workers. He was moved by the deaths of two garbage collectors killed by a malfunctioning garbage truck, Echol Cole and Robert Walker on February 1, 1968. The strike was a call to end discrimination and for improved safety standards and as they marched, they held signs that read, “I AM A MAN.”

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Sadly, King was assassinated on April 4th, 1968. Four days later Democratic Michigan Congressman John Conyers, with support from Coretta Scott King, introduced federal legislation to recognize Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. It would take fifteen years to finally get it passed through Congress after the collective work of Coretta Scott King, the Congressional Black Caucus and the tremendous popularity of a song by Stevie Wonder on his 1980 album “Hotter than July,” which served as a rallying cry. The song was called “Happy Birthday.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDJfF6A4KP0

Their work secured a petition of 60 million signatures that ultimately pressured Congress to pass it, and President Ronald Reagan signed it into law on October 20, 1983.

As we engage in service and/or reflection on this day we can remember the life journey of MLK which has served as an inspiration for young people throughout the world. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was just 15 years old when he began his college years at Morehouse, a historically Black college for young men, earning a degree in sociology in 1948. After Morehouse, King decided to attend Crozer Theological Seminary, near Chester, Pennsylvania. Crozer had an unorthodox reputation and liberal theological leanings. It is said that at Crozer, King strengthened his commitment to the Christian social gospel, developed his initial interest in Gandhian ideas, was first exposed to pacifism, and developed his ideas about nonviolence as a method of social reform. He graduated in 1951 with honors as class valedictorian. In 1970 the seminary merged with Colgate Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York. Martin Luther King, Jr. then went to Boston University in search for a multicultural community and a setting for his study of ethics and philosophy. His life is a remarkable testimony to the power of the Humanities and a Liberal Arts education.

In 1955, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. married Coretta Scott King, became the pastor of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama and earned his doctorate from Boston University in systematic theology. He was 25 years old. He was chosen as President of the Montgomery Improvement Association and thus his work as a Civil Rights leader began.

In a speech given February 4, 1968, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA King stated,

If any of you are around when I have to meet my day, I don’t want a long funeral. And if you get somebody to deliver the eulogy, tell them not to talk too long. And every now and then I wonder what I want them to say. Tell them not to mention that I have a Nobel Peace Prize – that isn’t important. Tell them not to mention that I have three or four hundred other awards – that’s not important. Tell them not to mention where I went to school. I’d like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King, Jr. tried to give his life serving others. I’d like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King, Jr., tried to love somebody. I want you to say that day that I tried to be right on the war question. I want you to be able to say that day that I did try to feed the hungry. And I want you to be able to say that day that I did try in my life to clothe those who were naked. I want you to say on that day that I did try in my life to visit those who were in prison. I want you to say that I tried to love and serve humanity.

 

In peace and solidarity,

Dr. Terri R. Jett

Associate Vice-President and Senior Diversity Officer

 

Juneteenth, Pride and Happy Father's Day 2024

Hello Everyone,

 
I wanted to take a moment to reach out and mention a couple of events that may be of interest as I hope you take some time to slow down a little this summer to refresh, catch-up, engage in some interesting summer reading, and just enjoy life. 
Next week we will mark another Juneteenth holiday on Wednesday, June 19th and in connection, I am hosting a lunch-time showing of the film "Green Book," in our wonderful SMC Library starting at 11:30am. Please bring your lunch, relax and enjoy this film, which is inspired by the true story of a tour through the Deep South in 1962 by pianist Don Shirley - played by SMC alum Mahershala Ali '96.
Also see the Juneteenth message on Monday for more information that will include some Bay Area events.  
June is Pride month and while we do not have any activities planned on campus, there are some great celebrations happening throughout the Bay Area. Here is a link for information on the Pride celebration in San Francisco https://sfpride.org/. If you know of other events, please let me know. Oakland Pride is being celebrated in September. 
Last, let me extend a Happy Father's Day to all Dads, Stepdads, Father figures, Grampa's Great-Papas...etc. I am thankful to my grandfather, Rafe Taylor, Sr. for making the decision to migrate to California from Louisiana. 
 
Have a wonderful weekend,
 
Dr. Terri Jett
 

Honoring Juneteenth 2024

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Juneteenth Message Image

Sent on behalf of Dr. Terri Jett, Associate Vice President/Senior Diversity Officer

“That the formerly enslaved did not take up Lincoln’s offer to abandon these lands is an astounding testament to their belief in this nation’s founding ideals.” – Nikole Hannah-Jones, The 1619 Project

Dear Saint Mary’s campus community,

This Wednesday, Saint Mary’s will join the nation in honoring and recognizing Juneteenth, a national holiday that acknowledges the significance of June 19, 1865. On that day, General Gordon Granger arrived with Union troops in Galveston, Texas to read an order from President Abraham Lincoln notifying enslaved Black people that they were free.

This was, in fact, an order that had been given by President Lincoln two years earlier. Although the message was delayed in reaching Galveston, we now know that the plantation owners were aware of the order before 1865. They simply prioritized getting in one more good harvest over the freedom of the enslaved.

How History Is Told

Steeped in the liberal arts tradition, Saint Mary’s focus on social justice requires an institution of Lasallian Catholic roots to consider how history is told and the lens through which we reflect upon and learn those lessons. 

For example, the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on January 1, 1863, but according to Nikole Hannah-Jones in her book The 1619 Project, President Lincoln issued a preliminary Emancipation Proclamation during his Second Annual Message in December 1862 that advocated for the “colonization” of Black Americans. If successfully implemented, this would have relocated formerly enslaved people to a reservation outside of the United States, so Hannah-Jones argues that Lincoln himself was not an advocate for the full citizenship of Black people.

Fortunately, the colonization project did not appear in the final Emancipation Proclamation, and Lincoln’s secretary, John Hay, wrote in his diary that Lincoln had “sloughed off” the idea of colonization. Historians still debate the meaning of this passage, however, and Lincoln is not known to have ever repudiated colonization outright.

What is not disputed is that thousands of Black men and women contributed significantly to the Union war efforts, ultimately leading to the defeat of the Confederacy and the end of the Civil War. Irrespective of Lincoln’s actual role, there can be no doubt that Black Americans worked towards their own emancipation, spilling their own blood and sacrificing their own lives.

Remembering the Past

Those of us from Black families who relocated to California from Texas and Louisiana are part of the 6 million Black individuals who migrated from the south between 1910 and 1970 under duress during “The Great Migration.” For decades, we have honored Juneteenth, commemorating the struggle for freedom and grappling with the true extent of our liberation. Yet, we must ask ourselves: How free are we, really?

President Biden declared Juneteenth a national holiday in 2021 amidst ongoing political tensions and strife, fueled by events like the public killings of George Floyd Jr., Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery in 2020. This recognition also stems from collective experiences of Black Americans, including their resilience during the Reconstruction era—marked by a surge of lynching and disregard for the rule of law—as well as Jim and Jane Crow segregation, the imperative of the Great Migration, and the struggles of the Civil Rights, Voting Rights, and Black Power movements, and the present-day Black Lives Matter movement. The Emmett Till Antilynching Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2022, further underscores the ongoing efforts to address racial injustices. 

Please join me tomorrow, June 18, at 11:30 a.m. for a lunch-time showing of Green Book in the SMC Library. Inspired by a true story, the film tells the story of a tour through the Deep South in 1962 by pianist Don Shirley—played by SMC alum Mahershala Ali ’96. Bring your lunch, watch the film, relax, and engage in a discussion about the film and the plight of Black Americans from the Civil War onward. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Terri Jett

Associate Vice President/Senior Diversity Officer

Additional information on Juneteenth from the Smithsonian African American History Museum.

Information on two Bay Area Juneteenth Celebrations:

 Richmond | https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/4665/Richmond-Juneteenth-Festival (Saint Mary’s will have a table there, so be sure to stop by and say hello.)

Oakland | https://www.hellajuneteenth.com/

 

Understanding and supporting our Muslim community during the holy month of Ramadan March 2024

Dear Saint Mary’s College community,

At sunset on March 10, Muslims across the United States and around the globe commenced fasting from dawn to sunset, marking the beginning of Ramadan. We write today to emphasize the importance of understanding and supporting our Muslim community members during this significant time.

This sacred month, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, invites individuals to reflect on their faith through acts of fasting, prayer, and spiritual devotion. Ramadan is a time of introspection, self-discipline, and communal solidarity, underscoring the values of compassion, empathy, and charity.

During this time, many of our Muslim students, faculty, and staff may abstain from eating from dawn until sunset. This practice of fasting is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam, symbolizing obedience, self-restraint, and gratitude.

It's important to recognize that each individual's experience during Ramadan may differ. We encourage groups and friends to engage in open dialogue to discuss how this observance may impact participation and energy levels. Additionally, providing a quiet space and allowing short breaks for prayer can greatly support those observing Ramadan.

Furthermore, as Eid al-Fitr approaches on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, we remind everyone to extend understanding and flexibility to our Muslim community. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of celebration after a month of fasting. 

Good Eating has offered to provide food for students before and after the fasting period. Students may use their meal plans or buy food in Cafe Louis until 9 p.m. on weekdays. Late Night in Oliver Hall starts at 9 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students can request breakfast bags the night before to have in their rooms in the early morning. For more information, please contact Mike Lee at the Good Eating Company.

As we enter the holy month of Ramadan, we want to acknowledge the challenging context in which this year's observance unfolds. The current conflict in Gaza casts a somber shadow over this sacred time for Muslims around the world. We cannot ignore the impact of geopolitical events on the lives of our Muslim brothers and sisters, especially during a period of spiritual reflection and devotion.

Amidst these challenging circumstances, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a community of empathy, inclusion, and respect. As we extend accommodations and support to our Muslim community during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, let us also hold space for conversations and reflections on the broader social and political contexts that shape our world.

As a Lasallian Catholic institution grounded in the liberal arts tradition, we embrace the diversity of beliefs and practices within our community. Ramadan serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our faith traditions and the shared values of compassion, service, and social justice. Let us use this opportunity to deepen our understanding, foster inclusivity, and strengthen the bonds of empathy and respect that unite us as a community. Let us embody the spirit of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity as we support our Muslim community members during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Together, let us create an environment where all feel valued, respected, and celebrated.

Sincerely,

Brother Thomas Jones, FSC

Interim President

María Luisa Ruiz, PhD

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

 

44 Days of Honoring Black History & Culture 2024

Sent on behalf of the Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As the Senior Diversity Officer (interim) at Saint Mary's College of California, I am excited to announce the launch of our Seventh Annual 44 Days of Honoring Black History and Culture. This event is a testament to the transformative leadership of our students, staff, and faculty who have diligently orchestrated a powerful lineup of speakers, programs, and events. These initiatives powerfully highlight the significant role of Black history and culture in shaping not only our nation's narrative but also the evolving story of Saint Mary's College itself. 

Hosted by the Black Leadership Coalition (BLC) in collaboration with numerous campus and community partners, '44 Days' aims to educate, inspire, and celebrate the diverse contributions of Black individuals in our community. Through a series of talks, workshops, and events, we look forward to sharing these experiences with you and honoring the enduring legacy of Black history and culture. I encourage everyone at Saint Mary’s to take part in the planning, programming, celebrations, and educational events. By participating in these activities, individuals can contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment on campus. Furthermore, let's emphasize the importance of ongoing learning and reflection, encouraging individuals to challenge their own assumptions and broaden their perspectives through meaningful dialogue and critical inquiry.

Let us remember that 44 Days and Black History Month were born out of protest and resistance. The legacy of Black History Month began on college campuses, driven by students' efforts to embrace Black power and celebrate Black identity. This history of activism has been alive and well at Saint Mary’s, most recently with the “List of 20 Demands for Campus-wide Racial Justice.” Organizations like BLC exemplify the multifaceted nature of Black identity and play a crucial role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community in support of our students.

44 Days allows us to reaffirm our commitment to inclusive excellence, rooted in our College’s traditions. This commitment involves creating a culture where we are open to new ideas, learn from diverse perspectives, and reflect critically upon our own experiences. This kind of engaged learning, critical reflection, and meaningful dialogue can help us challenge assumptions, broaden perspectives, and honor Black history and culture. Together, let us embody the spirit of inclusive excellence as we engage deeply, listen attentively, and learn from one another while honoring the rich contributions of the Black community to our shared human story.

Stay tuned for upcoming event announcements for what promises to be an enriching and transformative series. Let's celebrate the diversity, strength, and achievements of the Black community at Saint Mary’s, not just for 44 days, but every day.

Lastly, I express gratitude to the Black Leadership Coalition (BLC) and other campus and community partners for their dedication and commitment to organizing these events. Their efforts exemplify the collaborative spirit and collective responsibility necessary for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Saint Mary's community.

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Historical Messages (Communication of & to ODEI Over the Years)

Update on Associate Vice President/SDO search Sept 2023

Associate Vice President and Senior Diversity Officer

Search Committee Kickoff

The Search Committee has met with Greenwood, Asher, and Associates (GAA) on multiple occasions.  We have been working diligently to establish a process by which we can identify a DEI practitioner to lead our community through a  lasting and significant transformation, one who will provide strategic leadership in the college’s efforts to create a climate that prioritizes and promotes inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging. With the support and expertise of GAA, we are committed to a search process that finds the best and right candidate for the position.

Please see here for the full job description and the position profile found on the GAA website and Linked in page

Regular updates about the search will be sent via email and also posted on the Office of Diversity and Equity website
 

Search Committee Members

Committee chair:

  • María Luisa Ruiz, Senior Diversity Officer (interim)

Members:

  • Ameer Ibrahim, SEBA Faculty Representative
  • Rebecca Anguiano, KSOE Faculty Representative
  • Jose Feito, SOS Faculty Representative
  • Sunayani Bhattacharya, SOLA Faculty Representative
  • Courtney Gordon, Sr. Admin Assistant,  KSOE
  • Carrie  Davis, Director, Mission and Ministry
  • Aeleah Soine, Vice Provost for Student Success
  • James Scuito, Vice President for Student Life
  • Jennifer Pigza, Director, CILSA, CCIE chair (interim)
  • Kalilah Epperson-Lee ASSMC Student Representative
  • Karin Hein, Staff & HR Support (non-voting)

I’d like to thank Dr. Robin Dunn (SOLA Faculty Representative) and Dr. Jyoti Bachati (SEBA Faculty Representative)  who served on the committee and are now on sabbatical.

Over a series of listening sessions last spring semester with members of the Saint Mary’s community, the committee and GAA received input about key priorities, expectations, and vision for this role. Participants in the sessions identified a series of themes and a broad array of responsibilities,  capacities, and resources necessary for a candidate to be successful, especially in this period of transition and change. The listening sessions last spring helped shape the draft of the job description and really highlighted the need for the college to ensure that our current and future SDOs have the capacities and resources to advance an equity frame for Saint Mary’s College. 

Institutional Goals for the AVP/SDO and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Saint Mary’s: 

The AVP/SDO is responsible for and is empowered to lead, advance, and ensure that accountability for DEI efforts is integrated throughout the entire institution. The AVP/SDO is not responsible alone for DEI. Still, they are expected to identify ways to accomplish the work of the institution, using measurable and realistic metrics of assessment to establish benchmarks, demonstrate progress, measure outcomes, and evaluate institutional change.

● Improve the recruitment, retention, and advancement of students, faculty, and staff from underrepresented communities;

● Advocate for allyship and provide education and training for campuswide allyship;

● Lead with a justice-driven approach;

● Create a culture of visibility for this position and for all DEI efforts;

● Help Saint Mary’s live up to its commitment to ’’respect all persons’’ and be an inclusive community’’ that is a model for other communities within the Bay Area and beyond;

● Be a strategic thinker and utilize the climate survey to build and implement a 5-year strategic plan for diversity, equity, and inclusion for Saint Mary’s;

● Work towards improving accessibility for all groups as it relates to on-campus facilities.

As the job description highlights, this Senior Staff position reports directly to the President, in partnership with the entire senior leadership team, especially the Provost, Academic Affairs leadership, Vice President for Mission, Human Resources, Student Life, and the Office of Institutional Research. The AVP/SDO and their Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, will lead Saint Mary’s to create a culture of continuous improvement and accountability by planning and assessing DEI initiatives across the college, aligned with the institutional strategic plan, Transformation 2028.

Please email me if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions dei@stmarys-ca.edu

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Professor of Spanish and Latin American Studies (SaLAS)

 

Faculty/Staff HSI reading group May 2023

Hello,

I am reaching out on behalf of myself and Aeleah Soine to invite you to an HSI reading group this summer.  The goal of this reading group includes:

1.     Read  Transforming Hispanic-Serving Institutions for Equity and Justice by Dr. Gina Ann García (the book will be provided)

2.     Meet at least twice over the summer to discuss the book (mid/end of June and once in August) and engage intentionally with the question about what it means to be an HSI in practice

3.     Participate in workshop on “Transforming Hispanic Serving Institutions”

4.     Share ideas and create action items that advances equity, justice from a DEI/HSI organizational framework,  with an eye towards assessment of  the SMC’s progress towards enacting the ‘servingness’ piece of HSI.

Please complete the following Google Form, which includes ways to get the book to you. We do hope you join us!

María Luisa Ruiz and Aeleah Soine

 

Listening sessions for AVP/SDO April 2023

The Associate Vice President & Senior Diversity Officer (AVP/SDO) search committee is eager to receive input from the St. Mary’s College community on the experiences, knowledge, skills, characteristics, and qualities we should seek in our next AVP/SDO. We encourage students, faculty, staff, and administrators to attend the listening sessions.

Representatives of GA&A will facilitate the listening sessions.

We request that participants make every effort to attend at least one of the sessions listed below:

4/28 12:30-1:15

5/1 12-12:45

5/4 1-1:45

5/5 12-12:45

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85814341102

Before attending, Listening Session participants are encouraged to think about these key questions:

1.     What do you want the new AVP/SDO to accomplish in the next one to three and three to five years?

2.     What are the most significant opportunities and challenges the new AVP/SDO must address within the first two years and beyond?

3.     What personal attributes must the new AVP/SDO have to be a good match with the needs of the University?

4.     What professional experiences must the new AVP/SDO have to be a good match with the needs of the College?

5.     What do you want to share as Points of Pride related to the work of moving diversity, equity and inclusion forward at the St. Mary’s College?

If you are unable to attend one of the sessions, please provide feedback via the search survey.  

https://forms.office.com/r/LpLfKSvgFk

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Important Message: Values of our Campus Community Oct. 2023

Dear Saint Mary’s Students, 

As a close-knit community, Saint Mary’s fosters an environment of respect, belonging, and safety through the understanding that each individual action can have an impact - positive or negative - on all of us. We rely on our community members to promote a positive environment with thoughtful decision making, caring about others, and engaging in acts that promote everyone’s well-being and safety.  

Examples of the following recent events call upon us to reiterate the importance of our values and expectations as a community:

  • The recent repeated removal of posters promoting the Queer Thoughts Collective Hour in the Intercultural Center has caused harm for members of the LGBTQIA community and runs counter to our institutional commitment to create an environment of inclusion in which all members of our community are treated with respect, equity and understanding, and are able to gather together in safe and supportive spaces.
  • Racist comments or jokes being made by students towards other students. Actions and/or language that negatively target specific identities or communities cause harm to not only the impacted individuals or groups, but to our entire community and are not tolerated.
  • Graffiti, vandalism, and destruction of campus property in residential living spaces. Incidents of vandalism in the residence halls or across campus disrupt our commitment to living and working respectfully in the community, undermine the experience of others, and place an additional burden on campus staff.

As members of a community that has care, inclusion, and social justice at its core, reports of these kinds of behaviors are both concerning and disheartening. All of us are asked to consider the impact of their decisions and actions on our fellow community members, and to speak up when you know information or witness actions that do not align with our community standards, values, and commitments.

Racism is not tolerated on our campus. Homophobia is not tolerated on this campus. 

We acknowledge that good work is being done by many campus departments, student-driven organizations, and campus committees to cultivate an inclusive campus community in which all members are valued, seen, and heard. Given the importance of these issues, the Division of Student Life is also working on a series of initiatives that will continue to foster a community that embodies our values of celebrating and respecting one another. Soon, you will receive advertising materials for upcoming programs and listening sessions that will further our conversations around eradicating hateful behavior from our campus community. In November, listening sessions will be scheduled as an opportunity for any student to share their own experience and perspective. 

We look forward to sharing more information as soon as possible. 

Sincerely,

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. 

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Jim Sciuto, Ed.D.

Vice President for Student Life

If you see someone engaging in acts that are offensive, that damage property, or could harm others, please report to Campus Safety at 925-631-4282. If you wish to remain anonymous, download the Gael Safe app and report to Campus Safety through the App. Incidents of bias can also be reported to our Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT). BIRT’s primary role is to respond to bias incidents and hate crimes as well as recommend preventative education. BIRT can provide resources as well as options for moving forward with a complaint.

SDS Workshop

Happy Friday to you all,

Sent on behalf of the SDS office:
Thursday, March 14 from 3-4pm will be our  Assisting Distressed Students: Tools for Providing Support and De-escalating Difficult Dynamics Workshop for faculty over zoom. 
Here is a list to the event on the SMC website.  See attached flyer for more information.  Hope to see many of you there!
Warmly,
Assisting Distressed students (1).png
 

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

 

Brief Exchanges Short Film + Curated Conversation with the Filmmaker 2024

Sent on behalf of the Black Leadership Coalition:

Greetings Faculty, 

In honor of 44 days of Black history, St. Mary’s Black Leadership Coalition in collaboration with KSOE Graduate Counseling Faculty Member Dr. Akilah Reynolds welcomes you to a short film screening of Brief Exchanges and a Curated Conversation with the filmmaker, Ashley Versher (as seen in This is Me…Now, Brief Exchanges, American Auto, Law and Order, Reasonable Doubt). Audience Q&A to follow. 

When

Thursday, March 21, 2024 

6:00PM -7:30PM

Location

Galileo 201

St. Mary’s College of California

1928 St Marys Rd

Moraga, CA 94575

About the film and event

In "Brief Exchanges," Tanya's encounter with a drunken stranger leads her to Troy on a street corner, where their daylong interaction reveals the microaggressions she faces daily. Through this meet-cute, the film offers insight into the intersectional identities of Black women.  Join us for an opportunity to engage in meaningful discourse and celebrate storytelling with filmmaker Ashley Versher.

Doors open at 6PM

Film screening at 6:15PM

Curated conversation with the filmmaker and audience Q&A to follow.

Light refreshments will be served. 

RSVP for the event

Please RSVP here

Tiny URL: tinyurl.com/briefexchanges

QR code: 

The event is free. Students, faculty, staff and community members are welcome. Please come with your students! Share widely. 

Visit 44 days website

Warmly, 
Akilah Reynolds, Ph.D. 
Pronouns: she/her 
Full-time Adjunct Professor 
Counseling Department (MFT/PCC Program) 
St. Mary's College of California
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Brief Exchanges Poster 2024
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Accommodations 101- SDS and ODEI GUIDE Tier II Feb 2024

Sent on behalf of Student Disabilities Services (SDS) 

All faculty are invited to join SDS to learn more about Disability Services accommodations: How do accommodations work?

What is expected of faculty?

This is an opportunity for faculty to ask us specific questions about the Faculty Notification Letters you have received for Spring 2024 courses.
All faculty are welcome and all questions are welcome - we are here to help support you and our students to ensure accommodations are implemented properly.
Tuesday, February 20   3-4pm
Accommodations 101: Learn more about implementing disability services accommodations in your classroom. 
Julie Scaff & Emily Heier
In person in room FAH145 or register here to get the Zoom link
 
Thursday, March 14  3:00-4:00pm
Managing Classroom Dynamics and Students in Distress
Laura Lyndon, Dana Collins, Julie Scaff and Manjit Sappal
In person in room FAH145 or register here to get the zoom link
 
There is an additional follow up session Tuesday, April 16  3:00-4:00pm
as open office hours with Laura, Dana, Julie, Majit and Emily. Faculty can come bring situations for advice/help. 
For more information about this event and other DEI related events at SMC, take a look at the DEI Events Calendar
 

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

 

OLG Our Lady Guadalupe 2023

Sent on behalf of the Our Lady of Guadalupe team. These are amazing community events that highlight the care and love of Latinx communities at SMC.

Greetings SMC Faculty and Staff, 
 

My name is Anthony Campos, and I am one of the two Our Lady of Guadalupe (OLG)/Latinx Lasallian Peer Ministers, along with America Lopez, at the Mission and Ministry Center (MMC). The Saint Mary’s tradition of hosting a week-long celebration to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe’s Feast Day has been extended this year to two weeks, and the series of events begins today. I am happy to announce a variety of activities and events for this year’s celebration. 

The Mission and Ministry Center continues to partner with students from Professor Anthony Suárez-Abraham's TRS 334 Our Lady of Guadalupe engaged learning class to bring you the OLG events you see in the schedule below. Please see the attached flyer. MMC and TRS are grateful to and for the many collaborators and sponsors listed on the promotional flyer of this year’s celebration!

You are welcome to attend any or all of the events free of charge. But, in particular, I want to personally invite you and your families to our grande finale of the week: the annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Fiesta on Friday, December 8th—which will be GRAND! The festivities begin at 5:15pm on the Chapel Plaza. This year, the celebration will feature Danza Azteca with the Chapel facade illuminated by Our Lady of Guadalupe. Following the Danza Azteca, the traditional procession through campus will begin at 5:45pm and lead directly to a special Mass in Saint Mary’s Chapel at 7pm (featuring an amazing Mariachi band). The Fiesta will begin shortly after the Mass at approximately 8:15pm in the Soda Center. A buffet dinner catered by the much-loved Salsa Verde restaurant (owned by SMC alum Humberto Lopez), live Banda music, a raffle, performances by Ballet Folklorico Guadalupano, and dancing late into the night are free to all! ALL ARE WELCOME!

Please see the flyer for a full list of this year’s offerings, and find more details throughout the weeks on the OLG Website (HERE). Thank you for helping us spread the word!

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or want to help us in some way!

Que Viva La Virgen de Guadalupe!


Anthony Campos: arc7@stmarys-ca.edu 

America Lopez: agl9@stmarys-ca.edu

Mission & Ministry Center OLG/Latinx Lasallian Peer Minister, Student Leaders

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Image
OLG 2023 Poster

 

 

 

 

Public Discussion of Tolerance 2023

Sent on behalf of Center of Engaged Religious Pluralism, Fairness for All Initiatives, 1st Amendment Partnership. This event seems particularly timely given what is going on around the world and touching our campus community in different ways:

Dear Faculty and Staff: 

We look forward to seeing you this evening in the Soda Activity Center for the "Tolerance Means Dialogue" event, which will feature students who won the essay contest associated with the event and our expert panel. 

If you can’t attend in person, you can join us remotely at https://stmarys-ca.zoom.us/s/99390445111?pwd=L2NjNm8xQmNzK1lPdk9pWWpzVXB1dz09

 

BIPOC Faculty and Staff Fall Social Hour 2023

Dear BIPOC community member, 
We're happy to announce that the Office of DEI, Faculty Affairs, and IT Service is sponsoring a BIPOC Faculty and Staff Fall Social Hour that will take place on October 5 from 4:30-6:00 at the 1928 Pub. We would like to take the opportunity to reconnect with the community and enjoy some social time together. 
 
Please RSVP and feel free to send this email along to other interested individuals as we work on creating a more comprehensive listserv for future events!
 
Best, 
Maria Luisa Ruiz
Jennifer Heung 
James Johnson   
 

Presidential Symposium 2023

The Offices of Diversity and Inclusion and Faculty Affairs invites you to participate in The 2023 ACPA-ASHE Presidential Symposium.  This symposium titled “Bridging the Divide: Addressing the Political Landscape of DEI Work and Scholarship in Higher Education”, provides attendees with the opportunity to learn about the short-term and long-term implications of the current political climate, examples of professional and personal resilience, and discussions about the potential paths forward related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in both practice and scholarship.

It will be held virtually on Friday,Sep 29, 2023 from 1-4 EST (10-1 PST). 

We have a limited number of spaces reserved for SMC participants.  Please fill out this form to reserve your spot by Friday September 22, by 5 pm. By your submission we assume you will be able to attend the event in its entirety.  We will contact participants with log in information once the registration period is complete.

Screenshot 2023-09-14 at 5.47.47 PM.png

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

 

Reminder, Event: Inclusion in the Classroom April 2023

Join Professor Carrie Mitran in this Zoom session to learn how to support your neurodiverse students. Practical tips you can put into action immediately will be shared.

When: Thursday, April 27th 10-11:15 am

Sign up here

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

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Inclusion In Classroom Poster

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALLIPAS Sunset Circle This Friday 4/14 6-8PM (2023)

A reminder sent on behalf of ALLIPAS:

Greetings Faculty!
 
ALLIPAS presents our spring event, Sunset Circle. Please note the shift in time to 6:00 - 8:00PM to accommodate the overlap with the Professor of the Year event :). RSVP here. 
Gather with us in the presence of sacred fire to root and ground ourselves with the elements. We invite you to bring offerings such as flowers, herbs, or plants to contribute. This event is open to the SMC campus and larger community. Hot chocolate, coffee and pan dulce will be available at the beginning of the gathering. 
Please be prepared to stand during the duration of this program (chairs will be available upon request). Please consider offering your students extra credit and/or attending with your class!!! Please advertise to your students! RSVP to follow later this week. 
Image
ALLIPAS Sunset Circle 2023
In solidarity,
Rebe
Rebecca Anguiano, PhD, PPS, LEP

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

 

Developing Equity Minded Workloads with Dr. Dawn Culpepper 3/23 

We  invite you to Developing Equity-Minded Workloads with Dr. Dawn Kiyoe Culpepper on Thursday March 23 from 12:30-2pm.  Dr. Culpepper's research broadly examines diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizations and the academic workplace. They will speak to the campus community about advancing equity in faculty workload. Please attend and make sure your colleagues are aware of this important conversation. Here is the Zoom link to attend.

Many faculty members experience their workloads as unfair, particularly in the area of service. This can lead to lower satisfaction, decreased productivity, longer time to promotion, and departure. At the same time, many academic leaders and departments often avoid tackling the issue of workload reform because they fear "opening a can of worms." In this workshop, Dawn Culpepper, PhD, will discuss why academic units should address service workload inequities and provide an overview of how departments can put in place policies and practices shown to enhance equity in the way service and other aspects of faculty work are taken up, assigned, and rewarded. Dawn draws from extensive research and practical experience, including work on faculty workload funded by the National Science Foundation and consultations with colleges and universities across the country on their school and unit-level workload policies.

About Dawn: Dawn Culpepper (PhD, University of Maryland College Park) is a research assistant professor and Associate Director of the ADVANCE Program for Inclusive Excellence at the University of Maryland. Her research examines equity, diversity, and inclusion in the academic workplace, with an emphasis on identifying strategies and disrupting practices that limit full participation for faculty members from historically marginalized groups and has been funded by NSF-ADVANCE, NSF-AGEP, and NSF-INCLUDES. At UMD, Dawn leads faculty development programs, education and training initiatives, and research related to creating a more diverse and inclusive academic workplace.

The development of a workload policy comes from a place of wanting to account for all of the amazing ways our faculty serve the community and to have respect for their time. An equitable workload policy reflects our Lasallian, Liberal Arts, and Catholic values. The purpose of the Workload Policy Taskforce is to intentionally develop equitable policies and procedures that:

  • are transparent,
  • express clear standards through which faculty responsibilities and expectations are measured, assessed, and rewarded,
  • that support faculty in their professional development toward an equitable, inclusive, and innovative institution
  • that honor faculty sovereignty and shared governance 

The taskforce membership is as follows: 

Alice Baldridge, Senate Vice Chair, Co-Chair

María Luisa Ruiz, Senior Diversity Officer, Co-Chair

Ron Ahnen, Faculty Welfare Committee Chair

Roy Wensley, SoS Dean

Jennifer Heung, VP Faculty Affairs

Marshall Perry, VP Graduates

Michael Viola, Director Faculty Development 

Laura Alvarez, Faculty, KSOE

Kim Clark, Faculty, SEBA

Andrew Mount, Faculty, SOLA

Jennifer Kulbeck, Assistant Provost and Director of Academic Operations 

 

Faculty/GUIDE Tier 2 Training on Working with Neurodiverse Students 2022

**Sent on behalf of Julie Scaff, Director of Disabilities Services, and Maria Luisa Ruiz & James Johnson, co-SDOs**
 

Thursday, December 8 10am-11:30am Zoom/Online (The session will also be recorded)

Join our webinar with Dr. Carrie Mitran, an educator, clinician, and advocate featuring a presentation, discussion, and audience Q&A. This interactive session will focus on practical strategies for helping faculty support their students in the classroom who are neurodiverse, which includes students on the autism spectrum, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia among others.

Register for the workshop here to receive the zoom link for the session.

Note: This is a Guide 2 Workshop.  For further information about GUIDE, visit the Inclusive Excellence webpage or reach out to Maria Luisa Ruiz/James Johnson, co-SDO's at dei@stmarys-ca.edu.

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GUIDE Tier II Neurodiverse Students 2022

Dr. Carrie Mitran is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, National Board Certified Counselor, Certified Autism Specialist, published author, and Lecture Faculty at Saint Mary's College of California, San Francisco State University, and California Institute of Integral Studies. Her area of expertise is working with neurodiverse couples. Dr. Mitran's research focuses on reducing harm in therapeutic settings and understanding differences in communication patterns. Additionally, she leads conversations on how to support neurodiverse individuals inclusively in various environments and is passionate about helping individuals find their voice.

 

LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL 2022

A friendly reminder about tomorrow's event, sending on behalf of Dr. Evette Castillo Clark, Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
 

The Asian Pacific Islander Resource Group (APIRG), co-chaired by Dr. Loan Dao and Dr. Anthony Garrison-Engbrecht, invites you to celebrate the first annual Lunar New Year Festival at Saint Mary's College on Wednesday, February 16, from 12-2:30pm in the Ferroggiaro Quad. 

Starting at 12pm, Sodexo will have an Asian-themed BBQ, and we will have paper cutting, calligraphy, and red envelope interactive stations. 

From 1-2:30pm (Community TIme), we will have the following performances and activities: 

  • Lion Dance from Toishan Benevolent Association in the East Bay
  • Calligraphy from Master Zejie Zheng
  • Paper cutting demonstration (at station) from artist Carrie Yuhong Fu
  • Flash Mob by Professor Jia Wu and students
  • Educational Visuals by St. Albert Hall Library

Thank you to our co-sponsors: Sodexo, CCIE, Office of Student Life, Academic Affairs, St. Albert Hall Library, and APA Student Association (APASA)

Image
APIRG Lunar New Year Festival 2022 Poster

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lunar New Year 2024

Sent on behalf of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Dear Saint Mary’s community,
 

As tomorrow, February 10, marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle, please join me in welcoming the Lunar New Year 2024!  Taking place during the first new moon on the lunar calendar, it’s an event celebrated with great joy and significance across many Asian cultures.

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, Tet in Vietnamese culture, and Seollal in Korean culture, holds deep historical and cultural importance. This year, we enter the Year of the Dragon, symbolizing strength, power, and good fortune.

It's important to recognize that Lunar New Year is celebrated diversely across Asian American communities, each with its unique traditions and customs. Here are three examples of how this auspicious occasion is observed:

· Family Reunions and Feasting: Many families come together for lavish feasts featuring symbolic dishes like dumplings, fish, and longevity noodles, symbolizing prosperity and longevity.

· Red Envelopes (Hongbao, Lì Xì, Sebaetdon): Red envelopes, filled with money, are given to children and unmarried individuals as tokens of good luck and blessings for the new year.

· Dragon and Lion Dances: Colorful dragon and lion dances are performed in streets and communities, accompanied by loud drums and cymbals, to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and prosperity.

The Bay Area is home to several of the largest and best-known celebratory events, a few of which I’ve listed below. You can also learn more about the history and traditions of Lunar New Year at APASA’s general body meeting on February 13.  Additionally, Good Eating Company will be hosting API inspired meals during lunch on Thursday, February 15th in Oliver Hall.

Year of the Dragon Waterfront Celebration (Feb. 10, 1–3 p.m.)

2024 Lunar New Year Parade ( Feb. 18, 11 a.m.)

23rd Annual Lunar New Year at OMCA: Year of the Dragon (Feb. 17, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Gardens of Golden Gate Park - Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb. 11, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

Let us embrace the spirit of unity and celebration as we embark on this new lunar year together. Thanks to all who helped collaborate on this message and wishing you all happiness, health, and success in the Year of the Dragon!
 

Warmly,

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

AVP/Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

 

Acknowledgement of Jewish High Holy Days 2023

The Center for Engaged Religious Pluralism, the Mission and Ministry Center, CIRCLE (the Committee for Interfaith and Religious Cooperation, Learning, and Engagement) and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion acknowledge and lift up for the College community the rich religious diversity with which we are blessed by remembering our Jewish faculty, staff, and students during their High Holy Days this month.

Friday, September 15 at sundown marks the start of the Jewish holy day Rosh HaShanah, which opens the Jewish New Year 5784. The tradition remembers humanity’s special relationship with God, our Creator. Rosh HaShanah is celebrated as the first of the HIgh Holy Days. It begins a 10-day period of atonement, ending with Yom Kippur,,  the Day of Atonement, at sunset Monday, September 25

 It is customary to acknowledge the holiday with an appropriate greeting:

On Rosh HaShanah, say “Happy New Year” (or “Shanah tovah”).

On Yom Kippur it is appropriate to say “Have an easy fast.”

During these days, the holiest in the Jewish calendar, please be mindful of the needs of your Jewish students and colleagues. The days are for reflection, connection and community. Some people retreat into prayer and contemplation and may attend services. 

Jewish students may require accommodations, including being absent from class, during this period for religious observance. Some may choose to attend class for presentations and exams so as not to miss out or fall behind. As possible, please be thoughtful and inclusive. Not all Jewish students choose to identify themselves publicly.

As always, when scheduling tests, deadlines, events or activities, it is vital that we reasonably accommodate all faculty, staff and students for observation of their religious holy days.

One way the campus is recognizing this holy day is the Mission and Ministry Center’s Interfaith & Religious Diversity team annual Rosh HaShanah celebration. Here is their announcement, inviting everyone: 

The MMC Interfaith & Religious Diversity team is hosting its 3rd annual Rosh HaShanah celebration in the MMC Fountain Courtyard (likely moved from the MMC lounge because we think we'll need more space). We would like to extend an invitation to you, in case you would like to attend, and also please feel free to pass along the invitation to any of your students who might be interested.

Here is the link to the MySMC calendar page (which includes a link to RSVP), and the flyer is below. The team is planning on giving it an interfaith touch by celebrating the traditions of Rosh HaShanah, but also inviting all attendees to share about their own New Year traditions. 

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you!

Carrie, on behalf of the MMC Interfaith & Religious Diversity Team (Annie, Oak, Jazmine, Sam, and Anthony)

Image
Rosh Hashanah Poster 2023

 

 

 

 

ALLIPAS Heritage Month Event 2023

Sent on behalf of ALLIPAS:
 

The Afro-Latinx, Latinx, Indigenous Peoples Subcommittee (ALLIPAS) of the CCIE will be hosting a workshop in honor of Latine/x Heritage month to take place on Wednesday October 11th at 6:30PM in the Moraga Room, SODA Center
 

In our ongoing efforts to fight against anti-idengenity and anti-Blackness, and honoring Indigenous People’s Day, we are being joined by Noxtin Nomecayotzin for an art and movement workshop. Call on your ancestors with creative indigenous art practices, and (re)connect with your roots while learning danza azteca! 

Please come with your students! The event is free and also open to community members. 

RSVP herehttps://forms.gle/voDgfsvYQhTdogpw7

Warmly,

Rebecca Anguiano & Gaby Bermudez (co-chairs)

 

44 Days celebration, "We're Making Joyful Noise" 2023

Hello,

Let's take a moment to acknowledge the amazing work done by the Black Leadership Coalition to organize the 6th Annual 44 Days of Honoring Black History, "We're Making Joyful Noise", officially starting February 11 and ending March 2.  
recent article about the event highlights the joint statement by BLC co-chairs Courtney Gordon and Cynthia Cooke St. Ange who share that, “We want to celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of Black history that should be extended beyond 28 days.”
The campus community is invited to attend the many events.  A schedule can be found here
Warmly,

María Luisa Ruiz, Ph.D. [she/her(s); yo,ella(s)]

Senior Diversity Officer, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Professor of Spanish and Latin American Studies (SaLAS)

 

Welcome to the 5th Annual 44 Days: Honoring Black History Month 2022

Sending on behalf of Dr. Evette Castillo Clark, Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
 

Dear Saint Mary's Community,

We are honored and excited to announce the 5th Annual 44 Days: Honoring Black History at Saint Mary's College. For the past two years, we have lived with uncertainty and a global pandemic that touched each of our lives. In 2021, we were inundated with news about racial hate, climate catastrophes, economic hardship, and violent crimes across the country. But now, we enter 2022 with a renewed spirit of hope, optimism, and the will to persevere. President Barack Obama once said,

"Hope is not blind optimism. It's not ignoring the enormity of the task ahead or the roadblocks that stand in our path. It's not sitting on the sidelines or shirking from a fight. Hope is that thing inside us that insists, despite all evidence to the contrary, that something better awaits us if we have the courage to reach for it, and to work for it, and to fight for it. Hope is the belief that destiny will not be written for us, but by us, by the men and women who are not content to settle for the world as it is, who have the courage to remake the world as it should be."

Since its inaugural year in 2018, the "44 Days" celebration has hosted dynamic speakers and signature programming that has addressed the vibrancy and complexity of the African Diaspora. This year's theme is "Power, Pride, and Purpose: How to find and use our power." It is vital that we recognize our individual and collective power to shift narratives about our history, highlight our pride through collective struggles and courage, and demonstrate our sustained purpose for building community and celebrating successes. We stand in our power, pride, and purpose as we gain our footing in a time of uncertainty, making Black visible and revered, capturing the very essence of who we are as a people.

In collaboration with the Black Student Union, programming for this year's Power, Pride, and Purpose: How to find and use our power will include the 5th Annual Black Student Convocation on Saturday, February 12. We will kick-off 44 Days with an opening event on Wednesday, February 9. The event welcomes the community back to campus and starts the celebration of Black History Month. It continues with a host of events capturing our theme.

The Black Student Union is honored to welcome Bryant Terry, a Bay Area local chef, author, and food justice advocate, as the 44 Days keynote speaker on Saturday, March 19 at 11:00 a.m. Chef Terry is the recipient of the James Beard Foundation Leadership Award and the NAACP Image Award, known for his activism to create a healthy, just, and sustainable food system. Chef Terry is passionate about educating his audience on the intersection of food, community, culture, and health. His latest book, "Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora," is a heartfelt tribute to the Black culinary ingenuity. Join us for this moving experience of food and community.

Programming for this year's 44 Days celebrating Black History is as diverse as it is timely. Along with the appearance of Bryant Terry, we'll share a series on black mental health, a weekly book club on the award-winning author Nikole Hannah-Jones' 1619 Project, and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Gaels 1972 Basketball Walkout and Chapel Fast. Our programming creates safe spaces for Black students by focusing on personal development and providing community space for all Saint Mary's community members by deepening a collective understanding of Black experiences. There is something for everyone!

Let's come together to remember that Black history is not only about one moment of the year but about celebrating and highlighting our power, pride, and purpose all year long.

With gratitude, optimism, and hope,

Black Lives Matter Co-Chairs:

Dr. Robin J. Dunn, Faculty and Co-chair
Laure L. Bowman, Staff Co-chair
Courtney Gordon, Staff Co-chair
Collin Fisher, Student Co-chair

 

2021 CCIE Juneteenth Message

Dear Saint Mary's College Community,

I want to introduce you to Miss Opal Lee, known as the grandmother of Juneteenth (short for June Nineteenth.) Some of you may be familiar with Miss. Lee, after all, she is largely responsible for the June 15, 2021 unanimous United States Senate approval of a Bill to make Juneteenth a Public Holiday.  Miss. Opal reminds us of the significance of June 19, 1865, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States - more than two years AFTER the Emancipation Proclamation.  

In a June 18, 2020 NYTimes article written by Julia Carmel, Miss. Opal stated that:

The difference between Juneteenth and the 4th of July? Woo, girl! The fact is none of us are free till we’re all free. Knowing that slaves didn’t get the word for two and a half years after the emancipation, can’t you imagine how those people felt? They’d been watching — that’s what they call Watch Night services — every New Year’s, thinking freedom was coming. And then to find out they were free, even two and a half years after everybody else.

Miss. Opal is 94 years old this year. I honor her for her faith, activism, organizing, and fierce determination. At Saint Mary’s College we can take a page from Miss. Opal’s book; strength and perseverance will lead to real change and lives will be transformed in the process. Let us remember that “None of us are free until We’re all free.” As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth in this historical moment, let us remember all who came before us to pave the way, and let us reflect on our Lasallian Core Principles which provide us loving guidance in the midst of challenges and triumphs. 

Onward and Upward, 

Kathy Littles, PhD

Associate Provost for Inclusive Excellence and Senior Diversity Officer 

 

You can watch Miss. Opal Lee be interviewed by ABC 7 below:

 

Dear Saint Mary’s College Students, Faculty, and Staff

 

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Last year, our campus mourned the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others not represented in the media. There were many conversations and emails exchanged that expressed anger and utter pain. One letter that stood out was submitted by the President of the Black Student Union (BSU), Ms. Shilei Bell-Lipsey, who described herself as “a rising junior who loves her community.” In her letter, there was a direct call for Saint Mary’s College to put action behind their words of condolences.

The BSU letter was followed by a Black Lives Matter (BLM) Committee communication and another letter from the Ethnic Studies Department. All echoed the sentiments of the BSU, and went further to call for changes in the College’s administrative structure, in support services, and in policy and execution. Collectively, these letters have come to be known as the “List of 20 Demands for Campus-wide Racial Justice.” The letters from the BSU, BLM Committee, and Ethnic Studies Department did not go unnoticed. They galvanized people. They energized people in our community who were bystanders before and thought “someone else will take care of it.” This resulted in a renewed commitment by many students, faculty, staff, and administrators to “do the work.” 

I openly share with you that much of the call to action is being addressed, but as many of you know, anti-racism work is never over. The work is incomplete, yet there have been significant accomplishments: The Senior Diversity Officer is now part of the President’s Cabinet. Last week, it was announced that the position of Senior Diversity Officer will be elevated to a full-time Associate Provost for Inclusive Excellence and Senior Diversity Officer. This is what progress looks like. Systemic change is not the responsibility of one office or one person. We all must do our part.

The Process

During the summer of 2020, we were all reeling from the COVID pandemic, but the work continued. A working group of the College Committee on Inclusive Excellence (CCIE) met often, and decided that a campus-wide conversation about the contents of the three letters should be discussed at All Faculty Day and All Staff Day. The demands made by the BSU, BLM, and Ethnic  Studies Department were combined, unedited, as one list; and what emerged were the following themes: Campus Climate, Hiring and Retention of Black Faculty and Staff, Racial Profiling and Harassment, and Curriculum and BIPOC Student Retention. In August, faculty and staff met in small groups and discussed these themes and the specific charge for implementation. The outcome was a commitment by several members of the SMC community to participate in systemic change on campus. Is the work over? No. Have we addressed every call for change? No. But progress is being made, which is essential when working toward positive change.

This webpage serves as a transparent platform for providing updates to the Saint Mary’s community on what has been addressed, and the critical work in progress as we strive for racial equity.

Please review each of the themes for updates on their respective call to action. We welcome your feedback, participation, and engagement. If you have any questions or comments please contact the CCIE at: askccie@stmarys-ca.edu.

Onward and Upward, 

Kathy Littles

Associate Provost for Inclusive Excellence 

and Senior Diversity Office

Four Categories of Demands

Campus Climate

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Campus Climate Activism 2020
This section of the 20 demands encompasses 7 demands addressing the overall Campus Climate. This page will continue to be updated.

 

1. Increased funding for the activities and personnel of College Community of Inclusive Excellence (CCIE). 

CCIE provided funding for Graduate Fellow 

2. Requiring all staff and administrators to be up to date on GUIDE training as a requirement for successful completion of their yearly personnel review. 

GUIDE workshops began in Fall and will continue in Spring: 2 trainings @ -50 faculty/staff per Semester 

"Facilitating the GUIDE Tier 1 sessions was much more fulfilling than I anticipated.  Gathering with colleagues on zoom last fall, it was obvious how much we all missed being in community with one another.  Thus I really loved how the GUIDE curriculum we created allowed for community building spaces to be created. Whether in small breakout rooms, or sharing our thoughts in a large group debrief, people really seemed excited to be with one another in a critically thinking and critically feeling space.  The intentional grounding exercises we opened with, as well as the variety of post-session readings and video homework helped to round out and broaden the learning for us all.  Overall, facilitating GUIDE helped remind me of the best parts of Saint Mary's College and the amazing people that make this a special place." - Legacy Lee Director of the Delphine Intercultural Center

"It was beautiful to see a sense of community through dialogue amongst staff and faculty. There is still much to be done to create the anti-racist campus that we aspire to be, but being present, actively listening, and reflection are steps we can take to realize our collective vision. GUIDE offers us the space to do this under guided facilitation." -Professor Loan Dao, Director, Ethnic Studies Program

3. Requirements for mandatory training on racism and white supremacy for all administrators, faculty, and full-time staff.

Kevin Kumashiro will provide DEI workshops for Cabinet and Deans/Associate Deans in March/April

4. Provide a clear statement articulating that there is an expectation from the President that faculty and staff must participate in GUIDE trainings/workshops.

Upcoming opportunities to collaborate with the new President, Richard Plumb

5. Provide increased investment in resources (e.g. funding, time, personnel) to properly support GUIDE Tier I trainings.

Legacy Lee began training for new GUIDE facilitators, and onboarding Kevin Kumashiro to provide critical and instrumental efforts to building a long term facilitation resource and materials

6. Requiring all faculty to be up to date on GUIDE training prior to receiving any support for professional development, consideration for promotion, participation in January Term, and/or being considered for IRB approval.

Lack of resources to meet the need of GUIDE training is still an issue, Terms are already in place as approved by the Senate and Staff Council

7. Financially invest and support a robust Campus Climate Survey process led by an outside vendor.

SMC has contracted with Rankin and Associates to conduct the fall 2021 Campus Climate survey that includes a plan and timeline for implementation.

Hiring and Retention of Black Faculty and Staff

This section of the 20 demands encompasses 4 demands addressing the overall theme of Hiring and Retaining Black Faculty and Staff. This page will continue to be updated.

 

  1. Elevating the Senior Diversity Officer to a Cabinet-level position, and adding an independent ombuds office under a new department of college diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

SDO added to Cabinet in October 2020-June 30, 2021

  1. Developing on-campus childcare, potentially using space in the recreation center as it was originally earmarked, open to use by faculty, staff, and undergraduate and graduate students with families. Dedicated on-campus childcare options are being explored. As the cost, space, liability, and pandemic-related public health concerns associated with weighing such options are complex, we are also looking at more immediate ways of assisting SMC caregivers. In addition to the pre-tax Flexible Spending Account available to employees for Child and Dependent Care expenses, we are exploring potential partnerships and discount rate options with area child development and childcare centers.
  2. Recruiting and retaining people of color in the administration and Board of Trustees who hold the values of social justice and Lasallian education over corporate models and profit.
  3. Hiring or contracting a Black counselor or psychologist who has demonstrated experience working with Black students, and demonstrated commitment to anti-racist work.

CAPS has contracted with Dr. Porter and she began conducting Healing Circle Groups, see her video explaining her groups and experience at SMC here!

Racial Profiling & Harassment

This section of the 20 demands encompasses 8 demands addressing the overall theme of Racial Profiling and Harassment. This page will continue to be updated.

 

1. Improving campus-wide access to and transparency of the BIRT reporting process.

2. Developing a process for the reporting and tracking of incidents of police harassment of our students by local law enforcement, and providing legal support for students who choose to pursue complaints.

VP for Student Life and the Executive Director/Chief of Campus Safety and Transportation will plan to create some method of collecting informational reports of police harassment and connect with the Chief of Police in Moraga.  Although the College would not be able to provide legal support to students, there are legal resources for students that we can research so they can be made available to students who are considering or choosing to pursue complaints.

3. Transparency in the SMC contract or agreements with local law enforcement, including any budgetary obligations for their services. 

SMC does not contract with local law enforcement. Any services provided to Saint Mary’s are in line with what police agencies provide to private landowners in their jurisdiction.

4. Transparency in any agreements SMC has with immigration enforcement. 

Saint Mary’s does not have any agreements with immigration enforcement.  We would be obligated to comply with the law.

5.  Transparency in the role, responsibilities, grievance process, de-escalation and cultural competency training, and budget of SMC campus Campus Safety and what budget cuts this office will take in the current budget crisis. 

Role and Responsibilities of Campus Safety

The role and responsibility of Campus Safety is to support all members of and be a part of the SMC community. The staff is responsible for enforcing the policies and protocols of the university including the policies related to employees and students as guided by the employee and student handbooks.  

Campus Safety Officers:

  • Are non-sworn; they do not make arrests or investigate crimes.
  • Are unarmed and do not carry weapons.
  • Do not make vehicle stops or patrol outside of Saint Mary’s College with the exception of the Saint Mary’s Rheem Campus in Moraga.
  • Do not author or serve search warrants.
  • Do have the authority to ask people for identification, to determine whether individuals have lawful business at Saint Mary’s College, and to issue parking tickets on campus.
  • Respond to alarms, medical emergencies, and deter crimes.
  • Are the primary service support for lock-outs, escorts, welfare checks, building security and access, information dispatch and facility emergencies.
  • Documents incidents in reports.
  • Provide training on various topics that include active shooter, restraining orders, stalking, emergency preparedness or other topics as needed.

Criminal incidents are referred to the Moraga Police Department that has jurisdiction on the campus.

All Campus Safety incident reports that involve students are forwarded to the Office of Community Life for review and potential welfare or disciplinary action.  The Department of Campus Safety supports Student Life and will assume a wider role involving health and screening.

Grievance Processes

Any member of the community would be encouraged to report concerns regarding the conduct of a particular officer or concerns about response to an incident.  The way to file such a complaint can be found on the Campus Safety website at this link (Officer Conduct).

Training and Professional Development

In 2020, SMC hosted Dr. Kevin Cokley to conduct a de-escalation workshop for law enforcement and campus security officers and agencies.  Campus Safety staff participated

in that training.  In 2021, this training was again hosted virtually and had three new  Campus Safety staff members attended the Workshop.  Additionally, we are offering the book, Defund Fear (Zach Norris) to Campus Safety staff as a professional development resource and will be discussing select chapters during all Campus Safety staff meetings in the Spring Term.

As with all members of the Saint Mary’s Community, Campus Safety staff would be expected to participate in GUIDE training developed and offered by CCIE, Human Resources.    

6.  Transparency in the number (not names or details) of complaints about Campus Safety over the past 4 years per year. 

In the past 4 years, there have been four formal complaints submitted to Campus Safety: two regarding the profiling of a student and two related to violations of the College standards for employee conduct.  Any complaints related to violations of the College policy would be investigated through Human Resources and the Executive Director/Chief of Campus Safety.  All details of such investigations would be confidential.

Complaints related to bias incidents may also come through the Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) and we confirmed that the four came through BIRT as well.  As part of the BIRT action, if such complaints are filed, they would be expected to go through a formal review and investigation that includes Human Resources and Campus Safety Director. 

7.  Requirements for meaningful diversity, de-escalation, and cultural competency training as part of our ongoing contracts with any large external vendors, including local law enforcement, Good Eats, and local businesses. 

Campus Safety does not contract with local law enforcement or local business.  Good Eats establishes a contract with SMC Administrative Services.

8.  Investment in research and testing of alternative policing models and alternatives to policing.

Beginning in 2019, Campus Safety examined means of clarifying the role of the department at providing service and resources to the campus community as well as support for the conduct policies and protocols of the College.  The first step was to revise the uniforms of the Campus Safety staff to better represent their role and appear less like a law enforcement body (e.g. removal of badges, ranks represented by stripes on sleeves, and blue formal wear).  The training being offered to Campus Safety (e.g. victim-centered interviewing, cultural competency, de-escalation) further emphasizes its role in campus community support.  This work has begun and will continue under the new leadership that is anticipated for the Spring of 2021.

Curriculum & BIPOC Student Retention

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Curriculum & BIPOC Student Retention 2021
This section of the 20 demands encompasses 3 demands addressing the overall Curriculum & BIPOC Student Retention. This page will continue to be updated.

1. Enhancing the social justice component of Collegiate Seminar by shifting from a socratic discussion to a difficult dialogue model. 

This request from the BLM working group clearly speaks to a need for more clarity around what the discussion model is for Seminar.  To this end, since 2018, we have been offering mandatory FYAC (First Year Advising Cohort) workshops each spring for first year students in Seminar 1.  In this workshop, which has gone through many iterations, we 1. Read the Seminar Mission Statement; 2. Read and examine the RAPS model for difficult dialogues from the Social Justice Training Institute, and 3. Read and process some passages from Seminar texts that themselves raise ideas that could potentially interfere with dialogue because they speak about issues by singling out people or groups: we look at how to process moments like this in the text in small groups in the workshop, and ask groups to use the Seminar Mission Statement principles and the RAPS model to suggest strategies for dialogue that are respectful and empathetic, and to report out on what they find.

Fall 2021: The next phase in this process is to bring this training to new faculty in a more explicit way.  We are expanding the training for new faculty by increasing the required amount of training (instead of taking two required workshops and two more of your choice, we’ll require 5-6 meetings where consistent material is presented, and by offering a stipend for completing the training).  Potential Topics include:  1. What is Seminar? Structure, Texts, Pedagogy. 2. How to Structure Major Writing Assignments and grade them: writing as thinking and process; 3. How to Use Informal Writing and Reflective Writing to Support Student Learning; 4. Seminar Discussion Strategies 1:  Literature Circles and Empathy-Based Classroom Agreements; 5. Evaluating Seminar Discussion (questions model; coding model; labor log model); 6. Seminar Discussion Strategies Using the Difficult Dialogues Strategies).

2.  Making ethnic studies a graduation requirement, and increasing the diversity of staff, faculty, and curricular materials to reflect the diversity of the Bay Area and the world.

The main issue related to the BLM movement and the Core Curriculum was the requested addition of an Ethnic Studies requirement to the Core requirements that would build on the ES requirement across high schools in California. To address this issue, members of the CCC met with two members of the Ethnic Studies Department on August 31, 2020 and we concluded that adding another requirement to the already bloated Core at this time was not prudent. Instead we collectively decided to work on modifying the American Diversity requirement to capture the types of learning outcomes articulated by the ES department in the meeting. Subsequently, the following language was added to the Core Curriculum Program Review (a document submitted to the Academic Senate in Fall, 2020 that reviewed the current Core structure and outlined several recommendations to improve the Core at SMC):

Based on information supplied by the ES faculty and a proposal to move forward with an Ethnic Studies requirement that builds on the High School Ethnic Studies requirement in California, the AD learning outcomes could be rewritten to reflect less of a diversity model and more of a non-hegemonic model:

1. Analyze aspects of social diversity (e.g., ethnicity, race, socio-economic status, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, and ability, and how they create privileged and oppressed groups in the United States of America; and 

2. Explain how social categories and structures of power may affect the human person, taking an explicitly anti-oppressive stance.

3. Engage with a theoretical framework for understanding power and oppression.

The CCC is currently waiting Senate approval to act on the recommendations outlined in the Program Review document. While waiting for the green light, we recently came across language in the Core Curriculum Learning Outcomes at another institution that could help. Modifying the American Diversity requirement into a requirement that studies “Race, Gender, and Power” appears to be consistent with the aims of the Ethnic Studies proposal. Thus, the Ethnic Studies Department representatives are invited to meet with the CCC again April 7th  to discuss the validity of the modifications and perhaps a timeline for moving in this direction.

3. St. Mary’s to fulfill its commitment to the End the Silence campaign, outlined by the President on May 13, 2016

 Progress Highlights for the SMC Community

 

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A Message from Dr. Porter

Dr. Carnetta Porter earned her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology/AIU in San Francisco.  Her research and clinical interests include linguistic code-switching and acculturative experiences, cultural/racial identity development and racial trauma.  As a Black identified therapist, she brings to CAPS 30+ years of professional/clinical development operating through a multi-cultural lens working with diverse populations as a therapist and educator.

Dr. Porter shares her reflection with us on her time at SMC so far and her work in the CAPS Healing Circles.

 

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De-Escalation Training with Dr. Kevin Cokley

On March, 3rd 2021 Saint Mary's hosted Dr. Kevin Cokley, a renowned psychologist and professor at the University of Texas at Austin who specializes in African American Psychology, Racial Identity and Achievement, and Race and Racism. He returned to the 44 Days Honoring Black History program to offer his pivotal de-escalation training in a virtual format to the Saint Mary’s Campus Safety officers, members of law enforcement agencies, and other interested community members.

The objectives of this training include the following: a) knowing the difference between fear and danger, b) understanding how perception influences emotion and behavior, c) assessing the effectiveness of police scenarios involving de-escalation and learning how to use de-escalation techniques, d) increasing cultural competence and awareness about implicit bias, and e) learning how to eliminate bias and rebuild community.

 

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Workshops to enhance the social justice component of Collegiate Seminar by shifting from a socratic discussion to a difficult dialogue model.

This request from the BLM working group clearly speaks to a need for more clarity around what the discussion model is for the Seminar.  To this end, since 2018, we have been offering mandatory FYAC (First Year Advising Cohort) workshops each spring for first-year students in Seminar 1.  In this workshop, which has gone through many iterations, we 1. Read the Seminar Mission Statement; 2. Read and examine the RAPS model for difficult dialogues from the Social Justice Training Institute, and 3. Read and process some passages from Seminar texts that themselves raise ideas that could potentially interfere with dialogue because they speak about issues by singling out people or groups: we look at how to process moments like this in the text in small groups in the workshop, and ask groups to use the Seminar Mission Statement principles and the RAPS model to suggest strategies for dialogue that are respectful and empathetic, and to report out on what they find.

Fall 2021: The next phase in this process is to bring this training to new faculty in a more explicit way.  We are expanding the training for new faculty by increasing the required amount of training (instead of taking two required workshops and two more of your choice, we’ll require 5-6 meetings where consistent material is presented, and by offering a stipend for completing the training).

This page holds the 3 letters from the BSU, BLM Committee, and Ethnic Studies Department written in 2020, collectively, these letters have come to be known as the “List of 20 Demands for Campus-wide Racial Justice."

 

BSU Letter


 

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Dear Saint Mary’s Community, 

I am Shilei Bell-Lipsey, a rising junior who loves her community. This May, I was elected to serve as the 2020-2021 President for the Black Student Union and this is my message to multiple sectors of our community at this time. 

To my Black Gael Family: 

I wish I wasn't writing this to you. I wish instead this was a simple check-in after finals wishing you the best summer, but it's not. I am writing to you because our community has faced yet another injustice. George Floyd was killed by Officer Derrick Chauvin eight days ago. This came after police in Louisville, KY killed Breonna Taylor, white men in Georgia killed Ahmaud Arbery and many other tragedies occurred. 

As I write to you, I struggle to find the words because my heart is heavy. Over the course of this week I’ve found myself spiraling through emotions, as I am sure you have too. From rage to crippling sadness, there hasn’t been a time when I’ve felt particularly steady. I want you to indisputably know a few things. Your feelings of anger, exhaustion, sadness, and whatever else you feel are real and valid. You get to feel all those, all at once, and all the time. This was a human life which was lost and has yet to see justice. You are absolutely allowed to feel however you need to about that. Please, I beg of you to take care of yourself, and your loved ones. Your emotional and mental health is extremely important. If you can’t watch the news today or tomorrow, that is ok. If you can’t respond to every DM or post every hour on social media, that is ok. Take a break as you need. I want all of you to take care of yourself. I’m trying to do the same by limiting my time on social media. We feel the need to constantly be informed, but we need to protect our own mental health right now. 

Being Black is beautiful, celebratory, and gorgeous. Racism and divisiveness are exhausting. We are exhausted, not inherently, but because of what is happening to our people. I implore you to remember the teachings of those before us. The fight to equity is not won in one battle. While we need all 4 officers in George Floyds case arrested and convicted, the white supremacist who murdered Ahmaud Arbery convicted, and the officers who shot and killed Breonna Taylor arrested and convicted, we need more! We demand more! We need power, freedom and the right to live. I’m not asking, I’m telling you that we will have it!

If you would like to get more involved, there are grassroots organizations that are and have been doing the work. They are supporting local Black Communities, organizing politically, and providing educational resources. Personally, I’ve been raised to organize, support and unite, and will continue to do so. There are so many different ways to do this. You can find and share resources across platforms to educate people. It is clear our own professors, classmates and administration are ignorant to the struggles we face on a daily basis, that they often perpetuate. You can make the choice to educate them and share resources or direct them to Google, but you are not responsible for educating them. If you cannot take that on, it’s ok.  

To support financially, you can give money to reputable organizations. Groups that do the work 365/24/7 to empower and support the Black community. Calling officials like district attorney’s, police chiefs etc. is a great way to make a difference. They need to know we see what is happening and we will not let up until justice is served. There are many petitions going around which you can also sign for the arrest of the additional officers involved in George Floyd’s killing and the officers who killed Breonna Taylor. You can protest too. You can organize and march on city hall or a street of your choice in your city. What I ask is when you protest, know who is organizing it, not everyone is working toward the same mission. Some people are only there to agitate and break things, and they do not plan to support any black people after they break a few windows. I also ask that before you break the window of a building or burn it, know your why. Ask yourself what is the point? If you destroy a black owned business, you are not helping our community, if you destroy a business which supports the Black agenda you are not helping our community. We need to focus on our people having the right to live. If you are protesting please be safe. Your safety is my utmost concern. I want you to live, I want you to go unhurt, I want you to make it home. In that same tone please remember, COVID-19 adversely affects the Black community. Protest in mask, consider quarantining after you protest too. Whatever actions you decide to take, be safe. 

I don't have all the answers, although the fixer in me wishes I did.  I wish I could control others' opinions of our community, but I can't. What I can do is hold on to my community, tightly and fiercely. I can hug, high five, hip bump and show you how much I care. I am taking up space to ensure our voices are heard and valued. I am projecting others into spaces to show we are not a monolith but a diverse community of different people. 

Going forward, the 2020-2021 SMC Black Student Union will continue to do the things we have been and take even more action. We are going to continue to unapologetically support Black owned businesses as frequently as we can. This includes caterers we hire, or places we order food for events. We will keep supporting our community, organizing clothing and necessity drives similar to what we did this past year. Educating our people is a huge part of what we do, and we will continue making sure our members are informed on current events. 

Many of our students may not know how to register to vote or submit forms for absentee ballots. I believe it’s my job as BSU President to help them. We will help all the members of BSU get registered and know their polling location/ ballot information. We have to vote y’all! We will connect more with other Black Student Unions and local organizations to support them, learn from them and stand in unity with them. I am here for you and I want to hear any and all ideas you have about ways we can better support.

To our accomplices: 

Thank you to all of those who've actually done the work. If you've called district attorneys, police chiefs, or grassroots organizations this applies to you. If you've donated money for protestors bail, shared grassroots organizations, and educated your own community this applies to you. To all of those I personally have seen taking the call to action, thank you. Your work does not go unnoticed or unappreciated. Please continue to check on your Black friends, classmates, colleagues, and family. We are in need of care, understanding and grace right now. Thank you to all campus teams and organizations who’ve also spoken up in support. A special thanks to the SMC teams and orgs who immediately stepped up. 

I would like to address those who’ve been silent or inactive. Let me be clear, if all you've done is put "#BLM" in your social media bio and posted a Martin Luther King Jr. quote before moving on like nothing happened, you are not being an ally. If you want to show up at our annual Black Light Dance or pool party, we need you to be a better ally. If you are a lover and indulger of Black culture, we expect more of you. If you find that you are not doing the work and want to, there are resources for allies to utilize. Rachel Cargle, a Black community educator has resources for allies here. The Saint Mary’s library also has resources available here which our librarians say have been a help to them. 

To the Associated Students Executive team, Associated Students Senate, and Campus Activities Board, how do you plan to educate the masses on our campus about their implicit biases and anti-Black sentiments? Have you reflected on your own? If not, now is the time to do so! To all the executive teams of other student organizations, how will you educate your members? What support do you plan to show to the Black community? Go ahead, get on the horn with your team and make a plan of action! 

Any of you who know me personally, know I constantly say "collect your people." To break it down, talk to folks who share identities or space with you who are not Black. That means your same gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, culture, age, level of ability etc. Collect your people, swiftly. Being an active accomplice is not easy, but it is something you need to do. I encourage you to look at your communities, the spaces you occupy and challenge the people within them. Be a leader for change. 

To SMC Administrators:

Yesterday we received an emailed letter from President James Donahue entitled, “Black Lives Matter.” He once again avowed his commitment to the mission of our campus, specifically 3 Lasallian Core Principles. While I am glad to have finally heard from him, I do have questions. What exactly does this commitment look like? As an AS Senator, I’ve heard him use the word “committed” a lot. We don’t have a single Black member of the Counseling and Psychological Services Department on campus. Is that your commitment? He’s shown selectivity in addressing Black injustice in the past too. As a Black student leader, that does not feel like commitment. We want to know how he is going to continue to support the Black Lives Matter Committee. This means true, actionable support. I implore you, President Donahue, alongside the entirety of your cabinet, school Deans, and Department Chairs to figure out what actions you will take in the light of new injustices. I understand actions have been taken, and those are appreciated.  However, our current situation is a clear indication that more action is needed. We want these new actions publicly known, I will hold you accountable, and the BSU will hold you accountable. Let the Black community of this institution know your plan, and we will make sure to tell you what does and does not help us. Listen to your students, your colleagues, your friends in my community. 

Further, to the members of the Board of Trustees, we want to hear from you directly! As students we often hear your opinions and decisions through administration, but on this deeply concerning matter we want to hear from you as a collective. We want to know your plans to create legislation that holds this institution accountable for supporting the Black community connected to campus. The 5% of Black students at SMC needs administrators, and the Board to notice that your colleagues, and your students are not ok. We are exhausted and uncertain, even more than from the COVID 19 situation. We are working to get through this day by day, minute by minute, in fact; and so are many others. It should be known that many of you sitting in power are not personally affected by this. Get up and start doing the work, today, whoever you are, wherever you are. We appreciate your careful consideration of how this campus will be improved for the Black community. 
Sincerely,

Shilei Bell-Lipsey

President |The Black Student Union 

 

BLM Subcommittee Letter


Black Lives Matter Committee Additions:

  • Immediate increased investment in resources (e.g. funding, time, personnel) to properly facilitate the GUIDE training program for all faculty and staff, starting with the establishment of an expansion to the All Faculty and All Staff days every August, providing tier 1 & 2 GUIDE training. (Student/Faculty/Staff Retention)
  • Requiring all faculty to be up to date on GUIDE training prior to receiving any support for professional development, consideration for promotion, participation in January Term, and/or being considered for IRB approval. (Student/Faculty/Staff Retention)
  • Requiring all staff and administrators to be up to date on GUIDE training as a requirement for successful completion of their yearly personnel review. (Student/Faculty/Staff Retention)
  • Enhancing the social justice component of Collegiate Seminar by shifting from a socratic discussion to a difficult dialogue model. (Recruitment Enhancement, Student Retention)
  • Developing a process for the reporting and tracking of incidents of police harassment of our students by local law enforcement, and providing legal support for students who choose to pursue complaints. (Recruitment Enhancement, Student Retention)
  • Hiring or contracting a Black counselor or psychologist who has demonstrated experience working with Black students, and demonstrated commitment to anti-racist, multi-culturally competent provision of mental health support. (Student Retention)
  • Elevating the Senior Diversity Officer to a Cabinet-level position, and adding an independent ombuds office under a new department of college diversity, equity, and inclusion. (Recruitment Enhancement, Student Retention)
  • Developing on-campus childcare, potentially using space in the recreation center as it was originally earmarked, open to use by faculty, staff, and undergraduate and graduate students with families. (Recruitment Enhancement, Student/Faculty/Staff Retention)

In addition to serving as a statement and listing of demands, this document will serve as the foundation for the Black Lives Matter Committee’s policy platform. While statements have an important rhetorical value, what is needed now is action. It is our fervent hope that our Saint Mary’s Community will discard the idea of contingent support. We hope our community will live up to the Catholic, Lasallian, and Liberal Arts values and traditions that we hold so dearly. The co-chairs of the Black Lives Matter Committee, in accordance with the charge given to us by the CCIE, “demand accountability of Saint Mary’s College of California, as a community and institution, to recognize and address, rather than react to circumstances of inequitable treatment of Black students, staff or faculty, particularly systemic racism at the institution.” We are committed to continuous dialogue and concrete, sustained action in service of this charge.

We stand with the Black Student Union and BSU President Shilei Bell-Lipsey in the call for support and understanding. We stand with Dr. Loan Dao and Ethnic Studies Program and the call for institutional change, as well as the supportive stance of Dr. Cynthia Martinez and Dr. Rebecca Anguiano and the KSOE Counseling Department Student of Color group. And we call to our allies to do the hard thing. We call on you all to change the fabric of our community, using all the tools at your disposal to identify, interrupt, and end every instance of anti-Blackness within and around our community. 

We ask you to help us make a world where we (Black people) do not have to live in fear of the police, in fear of being abused by those in power and being thrown away at a whim. 

We are living, breathing, human Beings. We are your equals in every way. We have never demanded more than the right to live our lives in peace. 

Black Lives Matter. This is not a plea. This is not a slogan. It is a simple fact. It is a feather on the scale that measures one’s heart. And every word that is spoken in opposition to this basic reality weighs like judgment on that heart. 
 

Signed,

Dr. Zahra Ahmed, BLM Faculty Co-Chair (2020-2021)

Legacy Lee, BLM Staff Co-Chair (2020-2021)

Kulia Osborne, BLM Student Co-Chair (2019-2020, 2020-2021)

Dr. Bedford Palmer, BLM Faculty Co-Chair (2017-2018, 2018-2019, 2019-2020)

Jenee Palmer, BLM Staff Co-Chair (2019-2020)

 

 

ETHNIC STUDIES CHAIR LETTER


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ethnic studies profile smiling in woods

Dear Campus Community,

On behalf of the Ethnic Studies Program, I extend my solidarity with Black Lives Matter and the historical struggle for Black liberation in this country. I condemn the recent murders committed by police and white supremacists of George Floyd, Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others not represented in the media, Now more than ever, we need educators and educational institutions to unequivocally stand in support of our Black, Brown, and students and employees of color as they struggle with the senseless, traumatic, and the disproportionate death in their communities from police violence on top of the disproportionate mortality of the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic fallout. This moment is a part of the long history of oppression and dehumanization against Black, Afro-Latinx, Latinx, Indigenous, AAPI, LGBTQ+, and womyn by systemic power structures embedded in the ideology of cisheteronormative white supremacy.

I condemn the perpetual surveillance, policing, and militarization of law enforcement throughout this country. I condemn the police violence on journalists. I condemn the police provocateurs who incite violence to de-legitimize and distract from peaceful protests, an inherent right in every democracy. Yet, I believe that symbolic gestures and statements are not enough. To that end, I urge us to support the following national efforts:

  • Convict police officers who engage in police brutality and murder, including the four officers charged in the murder of George Floyd.
  • Defund law enforcement, especially for the purchase of military gear and training, such as training by the Israeli military.
  • Remove ICE & CBP from assisting police against local protests.
  • Reject the President’s call to send the military into our communities.
  • Redirect funds from law enforcement to education, economic opportunities, housing and healthcare in historically oppressed communities.
  • Make ethnic studies part of high school and college graduation requirements.

On Saint Mary’s campus, I am advocating for:

  • Transparency in the monies used for law enforcement on our campus.
  • Transparency in the police contract with local law enforcement, particularly Orinda PD.
  • Transparency in any agreements SMC has with immigration enforcement.
  • Requirements for meaningful diversity training as part of our contracts with any large, ongoing external vendors, including local law enforcement, Good Eats, and local businesses.
  • Redirection of funds for policing on or near campus to fund the CCIE.
  • Requirements for mandatory training on racism and white supremacy for all administrators, faculty, and full-time staff.
  • Making ethnic studies a graduation requirement, and increasing the diversity of staff, faculty, and curricular materials to reflect the diversity of the Bay Area and the world.
  • Hiring or contracting counselors of color in CAPS.
  • Improving campus-wide access to and process for BIRT reporting.
  • Recruiting and retaining people of color in the administration and Board of Trustees who hold the values of social justice and Lasallian education over corporate models and profit.
  • St. Mary’s to fulfill its commitment to the End the Silence campaign, outlined by the President on May 13, 2016.

Finally, I ask that we reflect deeply on how we currently promote our diversity on this campus, whether it be through symbolic gestures, claiming HSI status, or engaging in Black culture. Are we also willing to stand for Black liberation? Are we willing to make ourselves vulnerable? Are we willing to sacrifice? Anything else teeters on exploitation of Black and Brown lives. Finally, I encourage our campus community members who have the economic capacity to donate to organizations doing ongoing transformative social justice work in under-served communities of color. Another world is possible.

In strength and love,

Loan Dao
 

Loan Dao, Ph.D. (She/Her/Hers)

Associate Professor and Director

Ethnic Studies Program, FAH 240-11

St. Mary's College of California

1928 St. Mary's Rd, Moraga, CA 94575