Vision:
Through our programs, initiatives, and partnerships, we strive to create an educational environment that respects and honors every individual's unique identities, experiences, and contributions. We promote diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in our workplace by nurturing the talents and leadership skills of all individuals.
Commitment:
- We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and valued.
- We are committed to ensuring our programs and services are accessible to all individuals.
- We are committed to recruiting, hiring, and retaining qualified diverse individuals from communities of color, LGBTQ, and women by creating a work environment where they feel valued and appreciated.
- We invest in internal training, workshops, and seminars that deepen our staff’s knowledge and understanding of DEIA principles.
- We listen intently to feedback from our employees, students, and community members on how to serve them better.
- We are dedicated to ongoing reflection, evaluation, and improvement of our DEIA initiatives.
- We are committed to upholding our DEIA commitments and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within our division.
Action Steps
The following actions align with DoCS's mission of celebrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. DoCS is committed to implementing the following initiatives to benefit its staff members, students, and community.
In our DoCS DEIA Staff Cultural Cookbook, we aim to honor the vibrant tapestry of cultures that make up our community by capturing the essence of their unique flavors and cherished culinary traditions. From cherished family recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations of time-honored dishes, this cookbook serves as a celebration of diversity, inviting every member of our community to share a piece of their cultural heritage. With each recipe, we not only savor the aromas and tastes that define our cultures but also foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the richness that diversity brings to our collective table.
In addition, we are eager to highlight and promote the myriad of cultural and diversity events joyously celebrated yearly. These events serve as vibrant expressions of our community's rich tapestry of cultures and identities, offering opportunities for connection, learning, and celebration. Together, we can embrace the diversity that enriches our community and strengthens our bonds. Visit our Cultural Heritage Calendar to review celebrations submitted by members across our unit to create a community cultural heritage calendar.
Join us for our film screenings, each featuring a movie that delves into diverse topics or represents various populations and experiences. Following each screening, we invite attendees to engage in brief commentaries and dialogues, providing an opportunity for reflection and exchange of perspectives.
We will focus on family diversity topics during the summer months of June, July and August. We encourage families to join us for these screenings. Explore our event page to find upcoming film screenings as we harness the power of cinema to inspire empathy, understanding, and connection within our community.
Our Lecturer Series offers staff a chance to engage deeply with diverse topics, ranging from cultural heritage to emerging DEIA trends. Each session will feature guest speakers and thought leaders who will provide insights and tools for promoting equity and inclusivity within our community. Through interactive discussions and practical takeaways, the series aims to inspire proactive action and spark meaningful dialogue. Visit our event page to explore upcoming dates and join us in fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Library, supports our ongoing initiatives dedicated to fostering knowledge, understanding, and inclusivity, within our community. While our virtual library is currently accessible, we are excited to announce plans to unveil a physical library shortly. As we build our library collection, Please share your recommendations with us via email at deia@docs.rutgers.edu. Together, let's build a resource hub that reflects and supports our commitment to DEIA principles.
DoCS is dedicated to providing comprehensive professional growth and development opportunities in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). As part of this commitment, we are excited to announce that we will offer a series of DEIA professional development workshops throughout the year.
We invite you to explore our event page to view upcoming workshop dates and topics and to register for sessions that align with your professional development goals. Remember, these workshops count toward your DEIA Learning Path Badge.
Wellness is an essential factor that promotes healthy habits that contribute to our staff's well-being. At DoCS, we prioritize our staff members' physical and mental well-being. The Quiet Room, located on the third floor of the LLC, is a space reserved for quiet meditation, prayer, silent reflection, or reading during work hours. Our aim for this space is to provide a peaceful and refreshing oasis for anyone who needs a moment of calm.
Our Virtual Book Club is dedicated to exploring books centered on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Each session creates a space for reflection and discussion, fostering a deeper understanding and equipping participants with tools to embrace inclusivity in their daily lives. Connecting staff through shared reading and conversation, the book club builds a supportive community committed to positive change. Check the events calendar for upcoming book selections and start dates.
We are thrilled to offer many community volunteer opportunities across Middlesex, Somerset, and Monmouth counties. These opportunities are designed to accommodate various preferences, from individual volunteering endeavors to group initiatives organized by DoCS.
During the summer, we organize group volunteering events where teams can come together to tackle larger-scale projects, such as community clean-ups, park maintenance, or assisting at local events. For volunteer opportunities please reference our Volunteer tab. Don't forget to complete a reflection form that counts toward your DEIA Learning Path Badge.