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August 29, 2024

 

Esteemed Mustang Colleagues:

 

This academic year will bring some significant changes and opportunities for our community. However, one thing that will always remain the same is the role that faculty and staff have in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for our students and one another.

 

As we begin this semester, I encourage you to think of the small things that we can do that go a long way in creating belonging for new students and employees. This year's entering class is from 49 states and 14 different countries. They range in age from 18-58, and a large number of them have served in our nation's military. Our new faculty and staff colleagues represent as much geographical, generational, and experiential diversity as our new students. Simply put, SMU is a mosaic of Mustangs!

 

Therefore, there has never been a better time to cultivate our cultural intelligence skills.

 

Here are a few ways we can all contribute to a welcoming atmosphere:

1.     Inclusive Language: Consider the diverse backgrounds and identities represented on our campus. Californians and Alabamians are just as different as Gen X and Gen Z. Think about the examples you use and whether you are using geographical or generationally bounded terms. Try to use terms that invite people into conversation rather than shut them out. Practice saying difficult names or ask, "How should I pronounce your name?" More importantly, remember SMU's unique lexicon. Terms like "Hilltop," "The Boulevard," "La Mad," or "PAB" will mean nothing to newcomers.

2.    Consider Your Space: We all have a definite style when choosing how to decorate our offices. Sometimes, however, it is essential to consider how posters, pictures, or other items in our offices may shut down conversation instead of inviting engagement. Look around your office and ask: who would feel uncomfortable talking to me if they saw this in my office?

3.    Assume the best: Many times, we are tempted to judge a person's intent by the way they smile (or not), respond in an email, or ask a question in class or a meeting. Before responding or forming an opinion, recognize that their lack of a smile could be due to a toothache, the short email being composed by SIRI, or that the tone of the question asked was due to a lack of coffee. Give everyone a little grace.

4.    The Gift of Positivity: A warm hello or expression of thanks for assistance can go a long way to boost a colleague or student's mood or outlook. This could, in turn, motivate deeper engagement with your course or with your department's community.

 

This year, my office will be rolling out new opportunities to become more culturally intelligent leaders, team members, and teachers. Remember, the goal of CIQ@SMU is to equip every Mustang with the skills and knowledge to teach, work, coach, learn, lead, and follow one another effectively. This year, keep a look out for our new inclusive leadership series and our Bridgebuilder's luncheons. We have a great year of training and programming coming up.

 

I wish you a great start to this new academic year.

 

 

 

Maria A. Dixon Hall

Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Advisor to the President