Diversity, equity and inclusion is the next area to see reinvestment at Emporia State University.
Numerous investments are planned, including:
*Doubling the size of the summer BRIDGE program to 60 students. This impacts first-generation, low-income students and students of color
*Increasing stipends for student Diversity Ambassadors
*Realigning the Interdisciplinary Studies and Ethnic Gender and Identity Studies to the Office of Diversity, Equity + Inclusion
Senior Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Nyk Robertson says those investments have prompted ESU to create an Intercultural Center.
In addition, ESU is hiring a full-time Basic Needs Coordinator to oversee the Corky’s Cupboard food pantry and expand resources for students in need.
Robertson says diversity, equity and inclusion-related positions are among the most highly-sought jobs, according to LinkedIn — with nearly 180-percent growth in DEI-related jobs over the past five years.
This is the fifth reinvestment announcement for Emporia State after the Kansas Board of Regents approved the university’s Framework for Workforce Management. Previous announcements included new programs, facility upgrades and/or new or re-filled positions for arts, music, business and nursing. The university has also announced over 30 staff cuts as part of its realignment.
