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Welcome from the Director

Dear SPA Community, 

As the Director of Inclusive Excellence, I am honored to join you in fostering an environment that prioritizes inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging—cornerstones of our community and essential elements of our mission.

The School of Public Affairs has long been a leader in preparing the next generation of public servants, policymakers, and community leaders. As we navigate the complexities of today’s world, our commitment to inclusive excellence becomes increasingly vital. It is not just a goal; it is a practice that requires our continuous engagement and dedication.

Inclusion is at the heart of our work. It means creating spaces where every individual feels valued and empowered to share their unique perspectives. Our diverse backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints enrich our academic and professional discussions, driving innovation and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges we face as a society. I encourage all of you to engage with one another, to seek out those whose experiences differ from your own, and to actively participate in dialogues that challenge and inspire us. 

Diversity encompasses the myriad ways in which we differ—race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, ability, and more. It is essential to recognize and celebrate these differences as we build a more equitable community. Our strength lies in our varied identities, and it is through this diversity that we can develop solutions that are informed, effective, and just.

Equity goes hand in hand with diversity. It requires us to identify and address the systemic barriers that have historically marginalized certain groups. As we strive for equity within our programs, policies, and practices, we must ensure that every member of our community has access to the resources and opportunities needed to succeed. This involves not only acknowledging disparities but actively working to eliminate them, fostering an environment where all can thrive.

Belonging is the culmination of our efforts toward inclusion, diversity, and equity. It is the assurance that every person has a place in our community—where they feel safe, respected, and connected. Belonging nurtures our collective spirit and enhances our academic and professional experiences. As we move forward, let us commit to cultivating a culture where everyone can express their authentic selves and contribute fully to our mission.

Our School is committed to initiatives to promote inclusive excellence across all areas. I encourage each of you to take advantage of these opportunities to deepen your knowledge and enhance our collective efforts. Moreover, I invite you to share your ideas and experiences with me using this survey. Your insights are invaluable as we strive to make the School of Public Affairs a model of inclusive excellence. 

Our commitment to inclusive excellence is ongoing. It requires us to reflect, learn, and grow continuously. I am excited to collaborate with each of you to advance not only our individual goals but also work together to create a more just and equitable society.

Thank you for your dedication to these principles and for your commitment to our community. 

Only through inclusion can we be excellent.

TaLisa J. Carter, Ph.D.
carter@american.edu

1. Recruit, retain, and graduate a diverse body of undergraduate and graduate students
2. Recruit, hire, and retain diverse faculty and staff
3. Review and develop curricula which focuses directly on inclusive excellence
4. Integrate inclusive excellence into evaluations and promotions of faculty and staff
5. Have a school environment that promotes inclusivity