A Letter from Barbara R. Snyder
»To Involve Others New to This Effort
Welcome to the Web site of Case Western Reserve University's Office of Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunity. These issues are of such importance that in 2008 we created a cabinet-level position that focuses on advancing them on our campus and within the broader community. Marilyn Sanders Mobley, a Toni Morrison scholar with extensive administrative experience in higher education, became the University's inaugural Vice President for Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunity on January 5, 2009.
Vice President Mobley’s task is to engage the many individuals who have worked tirelessly to enhance diversity at Case Western Reserve University in the past — and to involve others new to this effort. Our goal going forward is to build on the many strengths that already exist on our campus, and make them even more powerful through increased coordination, communication and strategic focus.
I often say that the mission of the modern research university is to solve society’s greatest challenges and answer its enduring questions. We realize these ambitions by fostering a climate that celebrates inquiry and discovery and recognizes that those activities are furthered by a community that reflects a broad range of perspectives and backgrounds. We value the contributions of every student, staff and faculty member, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, political persuasion, sexual orientation or gender identity.
Acceptance and respect are of course critical, but they are not enough. Each member of our community is important, and each of us should ensure that our every action conveys that message. We all have lessons to teach one another; the more varied our experiences, the more rich and inspiring those lessons can be. I encourage you to learn more about Vice President Mobley and diversity initiatives at this site, and to consider ways you too can support these efforts.
Sincerely,