University human resources administrators address diversity

Posted by Elena del Valle on February 12, 2010

Bridging the Diversity Divide

University administrators, educators and anyone wishing to better understand diversity have a new resource available in Bridging the Diversity Divide Globalization and Reciprocal Empowerment in Higher Education (Joseey-Bass, $29) by Edna Chun and Alvin Evans. The 144-page softcover research based book was designed as a practical guide for those wishing to develop inclusive campuses. The authors believe systematic organizational change is essential in order to achieve true inclusively universities.

Published in 2009, the book is divided into five main sections: The Changing Landscape and the Compelling Need for Diversity; Translating Principles into Practice; Mapping the Terrain for Inclusion and Bridging the Gaps; Orchestrating the Process of Cultural Change; and A Toolkit for Operational Reciprocal Empowerment. There is also an executive summary, recommendations and two appendices.

The authors recommend organizations that want to embrace inclusive principles adopt a change model based on organizational learning ideas; formally outline, in cooperation with employees and relevant groups, the diversity ideas they wish to add; allocate resources to the inclusive project accordingly; measure results; highlight success case studies; be alert to disparate treatment of minorities and monitor retention; and establish a work environment where stereotypes are dispelled.

Chun, vice president, Human Resources at Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has more than 20 years of human resources experience in public research universities in California, Oregon and Ohio. Evans is associate vice president, Human Resources and Kent State University. He has more than 20 years of experience in public sector human resources management and organizational development.