ATOC JEDI Committee Diversity Statement

ATOC Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee
Statement on Diversity

November 1, 2020

 

Bring your whole self to ATOC

 

Justice. Equity. Diversity. Inclusion.  We strive to make these more than just words: they are guiding principles of action and accountability.  We are committed to becoming a platform for social change. The Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (ATOC) is working to create a culture that attracts diverse voices and empowers everyone to be their authentic, whole selves as we conduct outstanding research at the forefront of our science.   

 

Our current work includes:

 

  • All stakeholders in the department:  Faculty, students, AND staff are encouraged to actively participate in policy creation and implementation through committees, inclusive department meetings, and department retreats.  

  • Discussions regarding inclusive practice, discrimination, and bias: We host regular workshops, during both department-wide and research group meetings. These workshops include some developed internally by our graduate students and others from campus and professional societies.

  • Amending our admissions process: We have removed GRE scores from our graduate application review; we offer graduate application fee waivers for qualified applicants; our students lead a graduate application mentorship program.

 

As we work toward breaking down barriers to recruitment and retention, and confronting systemic discrimination, our future goals include

  • Promoting social justice, service, and inclusion, and confronting structural discrimination by creating partnerships across the campus, with local research institutes and labs, and with other institutions 

  • Developing a Research Experience for Undergraduates program that provides paid research opportunities, mentorship, and support in atmospheric and oceanic sciences, specifically for students from underrepresented backgrounds. We want to ensure students have the opportunity to develop the technical and research skills critical for carrying out their vision and chosen career paths 

  • Cultivating a culture of safety and accountability through discussion and training, including increasing student and faculty education on topics such as bystander training

  • Supporting campus initiatives to create a satellite Counseling and Psychiatric Services office on CU’s East Campus

 

ATOC openly acknowledges there is much work to be done, and we are eager to help ensure that all voices are represented in our science as we address important questions in weather and climate. We will continue to evaluate our progress and update our goals and actions.

 

Whatever your intersection of identities, you are welcome at ATOC. We are committed to inclusivity and promoting an equitable environment that values and respects the uniqueness of all members of our organization.