From the Editor

Welcome to the Winter 2008 Expressions newsletter.  The vision of the Diversity Advisory Council is to see diversity and inclusion efforts strategically engaged throughout the district.  In a future issue, we hope to share a Maricopa Diversity Strategic Plan which is currently in development.

This edition of Expressions provides an opportunity to see diversity and inclusion from all facets of the district’s strategic directions.

Maximizing Stakeholder Access
Hoop of Learning is one of Maricopa’s bridge programs that helps identify and prepare high school students for higher education. Hoop of Learning provides a cultural context from which young people can grow and embrace the opportunities that Maricopa has to offer.

Enhancing Learning Environments
Active Learning explores ways of teaching and learning that can reach our diverse student population in a way that supports connection with other students and engagement with the college. The Conversation Partner Program provides support opportunities to strengthen language, listening and cultural competency skills.

Enhancing Collaboration
There are so many examples of collaboration in this edition of Expressions.  In addition to the Conversation Partner Program listed, the Employee Professional Development Day demonstrates how identifying shared goals of Maricopa’s Policy and Constituency groups can result in an important learning event for the whole community. 

Recruiting, Developing and Retaining a Quality Diverse Workforce
This month’s Leadership column focuses on the importance of Adjunct Faculty to student success at Maricopa and reminds us to provide the support and appreciation to enhance their efforts. The Professional Development Days, Active Learning series, Spring Leadership Breakfast and the ongoing opportunities offered by MCLI, EOLT and Diversity Infusion speak to Maricopa’s commitment to a quality diverse workforce.

Maintaining a Strong Identity
Maricopa received very positive community recognition for Chancellor Rufus Glasper and Yvonne Watterson who received Living the Dream Awards from the Phoenix Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee and the City of Phoenix Human Relations Commission.  Vice-Chancellor Steve Helfgot was also recognized by the Anti-Defamation League in November. 

Our spring convocations and end of year events are among the most important ways we celebrate student success with the larger Maricopa community of graduates, parents and friends.

The Monitoring Reports provide ongoing information for continuous improvement, and finally, the DAC Awards of Excellence help us to reflect on the often unsung heroes of Maricopa who are diligently working to ensure that our practices match our values. 

Thank you for taking the time to read Expressions…and if you’ve gotten this far, you’ve really read it!

Let us know your thoughts, suggestions and vision as we continue to build an inclusive Maricopa.

Rory Gilbert

Manager for Diversity Initiatives
480-731-8211
rory.gilbert@domail.maricopa.edu