Chancellor's Diversity Showcase, 4-5-2018

Dear colleagues,

I'm writing to invite you to attend the Chancellor's Diversity Showcase on Monday, April 23 from 5 to 7 P.M. in the Krugman Conference Hall. Diversity and inclusion are among our top priorities, and the campus has made a commitment to recognize historically underrepresented persons and groups in areas of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status and ability status. 

Our framework for diversity also includes nationality, religion, socioeconomic status, diverse experiences, perspectives and attributes, all of which enhance our campus learning environment.

However, we know that diversity alone is not enough. The university must strive to develop a welcoming and inclusive campus culture. The Diversity Showcase helps us achieve just that. Through booths, posters, videos, interactive exercises and more, the showcase will present and celebrate a wide variety of programs, initiatives, services and research that move us closer toward a more diverse and inclusive university. Most importantly, the showcase will serve as a learning opportunity for all faculty and staff -- particularly leadership and hiring managers - applauding the ways we have succeeded and identifying areas where we can improve. All participants are invited to share their ideas for new endeavors on a collaborative Idea Wall. Now, perhaps more than ever, we need to listen to diverse voices and learn from perspectives that have not been included in the past. 

Let's take the example of our own neighborhood. Aurora is the most diverse city in Colorado, bringing a richness and vibrancy to our community. To truly be a part of this diverse locality, we must do a better job integrating with our neighbors, who bring a wealth of experiences, cultures and ethnicities. One initiative in particular is making great strides to include Aurora residents in the CU Anschutz workforce.

The Community-Campus Partnership's Hire Local program helps match people in Aurora with the major employers on campus - both hospitals and the university. Now in its third year, Hire Local connects Aurora residents with careers in a variety of fields, including the health sciences, facilities and office support. I encourage all hiring managers to consider Hire Local applicants for campus positions. 

The Community-Campus Partnership will be just one of many exhibitors at the showcase. Come engage and celebrate with colleagues who have taken proactive steps to enhance diversity and inclusion at CU Anschutz. For additional information about the showcase, please refer to the event webpage or contact Brenda J. Allen at Brenda.j.allen@ucdenver.edu or 303-315-2104. 

I hope to see you there. 

Don Elliman
Chancellor