Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion In The M.S. In Sustainability Management Program

The Graduate Programs in Sustainability Management & Sustainability Science and co-sponsors – The Earth Institute/Climate School and the School of Professional Studies –are committed to anti-racism. From the perspective of our program specifically, anti-racism is especially pertinent because the pursuit of equity is bound with the pursuit of sustainability. The programs have implemented and will continuously implement measures to improve diversity among its faculty, students, and staff, as well as to integrate equity concerns in its curriculum.

​

Historical Overview

​

The SUMA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee , which was formed in 2020, led the MS in Sustainability Management program's anti-racism work, provided accountability for the implementation of recommendations that emerged from committee discussions, and communicated periodically with students, alumni, and faculty on the program’s progress. The Committee comprised students, alumni, faculty, and staff representatives.

Early in this effort, we deemed it important to conduct a DE&I Audit  that would set a baseline of performance, as well produce new strategies for improvement. Conducted by Iere Strategies, a consulting team of social scientists with long experience in DE&I work, the audit was complex.  It involved surveying students, faculty, and staff, in-depth interviews on a voluntary basis, an examination of program data, and an analysis of the program's two required courses (Sustainability Management and the Capstone Workshop), including a review of the syllabi and observations of class sessions.

Additionally, The student representatives comprised the SUMA Equity Alliance, a new student group supported by the School of Professional Studies. The Committee met throughout the year to discuss initiatives and assess progress. The Committee's goals were as outlined:

1) Diversify the student body, faculty, and staff

2) Create an inclusive environment in the program

3) Integrate equity in concerns into the curriculum

Spring 2022 & Beyond

As the programs have grown tremendously, so have the DE&I efforts.  We transitioned from committee work to a fully operational DEI Initiatives division, led by Dr. John Williams, Director of Student Affairs & DEI. Now with the theme DEI in ACTION, the Sustainability Programs are ensuring that DEI is commonplace in all that we do!