Just under a week after opening the Black Cultural Center on campus, UW-Madison released a statement detailing the university’s accomplishments over the past year—particularly those relating to diversity on campus.
Dean of Students Lori Berquam and Chief Diversity Officer Patrick J. Sims noted that “diversity is a source of strength, creativity and innovation for our campus,” a message that is now a part of the university’s institutional statement of diversity.
The letter cited the university’s hiring new staff, its continued development of emerging programs and the opening of the Black Cultural Center as examples of its effort to encourage diversification and the inclusion of all students on campus.
The message comes amidst accusations of mismanagement of hate and bias incidents by university administrations, with students calling into question its commitment to inclusion. It also comes at a time when students have demanded for the fair representation of all students.
Although the statement highlights UW-Madison’s progress, it acknowledges that there is still much to be done when addressing diversity.
“We’re focused on listening to and learning from our students and community members and taking the right steps to improve the campus climate,” Berquam and Sims said in the statement. “Please know that we’re committed to this vitally important work, and to inspiring others to join us in taking it up.”
