By Don Weber
A steady issue at CCSU, campus diversity has been a topic of discussion for many years now. Student organizations create long strides for diversifying this campus, but faculty has been working behind closed doors as well.
Campus diversity has become a major work in progress for CCSU students and faculty.
At first glance, the word diversity typically leads people to think of two opposites whether it be ethnic, religious or about sexual orientation. However, if you take the time to look over the student circle you can see that CCSU has a pretty diverse group of students.
This is what the faculty wants to focus on, the overall collection of students that Central has attained over the years.
Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Moises Salinas pointed out that the Office of Diversity and Equity has been spreading the goals for campus diversity.
“We initially focus on the terms of climate or the environment on campus,” Salinas said. What they hear or see on campus is what gets the most attention first, for example the opening of the LGBT Center or the Center for Africana Studies.
Professor Salinas also noted that ideas such as campus daycare facilities and gender-neutral bathrooms are considered. Something they have thought about previously that is receiving more attention now. Working with Salinas is University Ombudsperson Dr. Antonio Garcia-Lozada.
“We want to provide the skills to deal with each other,” Garcia-Lozada said, referring to faculty and students. Garcia-Lozada considers himself a bridge between the students and staff, and was quick to point out that President Jack Miller has helped a lot by supporting their efforts in campus diversity.
Students and faculty continue to support campus diversity together. Events are posted on the student center walls of club and campus events, including some of Professor Salinas’ own projects.
When asked if he was genuinely happy with the effort, Salinas said “We’ve made good progress, but we are nowhere near done yet.” Both Salinas and Garcia-Lozada agree that the changes seen around campus so far are only the beginning.
Certainly the CCSU student body can expect good progression for the topic of campus diversity to come.
