T4-C: Diversity Enhancement Efforts Towards Improving Student Attitudes
Location
Bill France C
Start Date
6-3-2018 8:40 AM
Description
The Citadel Mechanical Engineering program has been actively involved in providing minority students with academic, social, and personal support while at The Citadel. In 2016, The Citadel celebrated diversity milestones commemorating the 50th anniversary of African American cadets and the 20th anniversary of female cadets in the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. In 2012, a Leadership, Excellence, and Academic Distinction plan was created, outlining the college’s strategic plan to enroll a diverse community of leaders as faculty and staff and to expand student diversity. Foundational training and education related to the ethical treatment of cultural, gender, racial, and religious diversity matters were expanded for the Corps of Cadets. The College President established a Diversity Council comprised of cadets, students, faculty and staff. Additionally, a robust menu of clubs, activities, workshops, and services dedicated to fostering an understanding of issues related to diversity and supporting the success of female and minority students, was developed. This paper describes the impact of diversity enhancement efforts and activities on the Mechanical Engineering students and engagement of faculty. In addition, a preliminary assessment of their influence on student attitudes are presented and discussed.
T4-C: Diversity Enhancement Efforts Towards Improving Student Attitudes
Bill France C
The Citadel Mechanical Engineering program has been actively involved in providing minority students with academic, social, and personal support while at The Citadel. In 2016, The Citadel celebrated diversity milestones commemorating the 50th anniversary of African American cadets and the 20th anniversary of female cadets in the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. In 2012, a Leadership, Excellence, and Academic Distinction plan was created, outlining the college’s strategic plan to enroll a diverse community of leaders as faculty and staff and to expand student diversity. Foundational training and education related to the ethical treatment of cultural, gender, racial, and religious diversity matters were expanded for the Corps of Cadets. The College President established a Diversity Council comprised of cadets, students, faculty and staff. Additionally, a robust menu of clubs, activities, workshops, and services dedicated to fostering an understanding of issues related to diversity and supporting the success of female and minority students, was developed. This paper describes the impact of diversity enhancement efforts and activities on the Mechanical Engineering students and engagement of faculty. In addition, a preliminary assessment of their influence on student attitudes are presented and discussed.