“Schools can put pressure on employers to include a more diverse workforce and the other way around,” he says. “I’ve seen it work both ways.”
Hammonds, Harvey, Nichols and Mitchell all report to the presidents of their respective institutions, putting them close to the decision-making process. Their proximity gives them a better chance of being heard and, therefore, having an impact on university policies.
The work of these diversity officers is broadening under the ever-changing needs of colleges and universities. According to Williams, their responsibilities now have a three-pronged approach: equity and compliance; multiculturalism; and an academic-diversity focus.
“The role gives you capability, but it depends on the resources you get,” Williams says.
Mitchell, who previously was a department chair and university endowed professor of education at historically Black Hampton University, says accepting her current post was a risk because she had to give up her tenure-track position and come to New Hampshire as a visiting professor and administrator.
“In our society, our history of denied access, especially to people of color, this job is very important,” Mitchell says.
© Copyright 2005 by DiverseEducation.com
