Equity, diversity, inclusion and access are the guiding principles for every aspect of our work in University of Minnesota Extension. As individuals, faculty, staff and educators, and as a community, we commit to weaving diversity, equity and inclusion into all aspects of Extension’s programming and employee engagement. We commit to creating inclusive and welcoming educational programs and to offering equitable access to historically marginalized members of our communities. Extension honors and respects all backgrounds and perspectives. Through equitable recruitment, promotion and retention and by learning from each other, we will transform our work to ensure that Extension’s workforce, volunteers and partnerships reflect the rich diversity of Minnesota and its people.
The Extension Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee provides advice and counsel to the Extension dean, the DEI director and other Extension leadership regarding:
- Increasing diversity and building an inclusive environment throughout Extension’s workplace.
- Increasing diversity, equity and inclusion education and training for all Extension employees.
- Developing recommendations and strategies for reaching new, diverse and historically underserved audiences.
- Supporting efforts to develop cross-cultural scholarship within and across all Extension departments.
- Developing recommendations and strategies for ensuring Extension's leadership and workforce reflects the diversity of the population of the state.
- Other issues regarding diversity, equity and inclusion within Extension.
For questions about Extension’s DEI work, please contact Joe Rand, interim director of DEI programs.