University of Rochester 2 nd Annual Diversity Conference April 29, 2011 What kind of community do we wish to be? A Conversation Café Facilitated by: Stanley Byrd, HR Manager of Multi-Cultural Affairs and Inclusion Kathy Sweetland, University Intercessor 1

Format For this workshop, we utilized a Conversation Café model in which 30 staff, faculty, and members of the Greater Rochester community were asked to sit in groups of four at tables that contained markers and newsprint. Each group was asked to choose one of the participants at their table to be that table’s Ambassador. In answer to the first question, everyone was asked to write notes on the newsprint. When the time allotted for the first question had expired, the members of each group were asked to move to a different table and to make an effort not to sit at the same table with anyone who had been at their previous table. Ambassadors remained at the table to convey to the new group the ideas the prior members of the table had expressed. Each group was allotted 15 minutes to address each question separately: What kind of community do we wish to be? What can we do to sustain such a community? The following represents a summary of our conversations. 2

What kind of community do we wish to be? We wish to be a place where: We hold ourselves accountable. We are open to diversity, change and new ideas as well as the challenges that differing world views bring. We are intentional about diversity and appreciate diverse points of view. We invest in diversity as if it were technology. We assume positive intent. Diversity isn’t about polarity, but about inclusion and appreciation of different points of view. 3

What kind of community do we wish to be? We wish to be a place that: Values transparent communication. Is thriving on its diverse members. Is welcoming and respectful to all. Is inclusive and focused on similarities. Encourages community spirit, with people willing to work together across boundaries. Makes it possible for people to feel valued and important Recognizes diverse communities and the need to complete unfinished business 4

What kind of community do we wish to be? We wish to be a place that: Visions diversity as being multi-dimensional--- race, education, language, physical abilities, religion, etc. Is accessible Everyone is trusted, valued, and embraced for what we bring to the community. All people can identify with people who are in positions of influence, power, and decision- making. 5

What kind of community do we wish to be? We wish to be a community where: Every voice is valued and heard. Diversity is alive and evolving. Becoming aware of and educated about the surrounding community. Establishing the “I Care” values throughout the University and making them applicable to co-workers, not just patients and external customers. 6

What can we do to sustain such a community? We can sustain such a community by: Nurturing diverse leaders. Demonstrating pride of ownership and commitment to the University as well as a willingness to teach and learn about diversity. SAYING HELLO! Staying the course and becoming supportive allies. Establishing metrics---what gets measured, gets done! 7

What can we do to sustain such a community? We can sustain such a community by: Placing the emphasis on education. Being willing to commit to get involved and to step outside of our comfort zones. Being intentional about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Asking the hard questions. Valuing diversity as much as ‘technology’. 8

What can we do to sustain such a community? We can sustain such a community by: Engaging people in the conversation early. Using language that does not polarize the discussion. Acknowledging that racism still exists. Attaching results to performance. Using the principles of open dialogue. 9

What can we do to sustain such a community? We sustain such a community by: Promoting programs that reach out to faculty and staff through the use of role models and mentors. Establishing an accountability system that holds people to performance standards, embracing the value of diversity, and empowering people to take action. Establishing a robust succession plan by filling the pipeline and eradicating barriers. 10

What can we do to sustain such a community? We can sustain such a community by: Creating an environment in which the concept of the Safe Space program for people who are LGBT is extended to all. Broadening participation in diversity programs and initiatives. Being a good role model. Living as if we are proud of our diversity. 11

What can we do to sustain such a community? We can sustain such a community by: Creating opportunities for intentional dialogue about what the University stands for, so we can BE it. We have to BE the change. Recognizing that we are a learning organization which is ever-evolving. Diversity is a core value. Confronting disparities in order to broaden our own understanding. 12

What can we do to sustain such a community? We can sustain such a community by: Being aware of those who are continually disadvantaged---by space, by language, by lack of understanding/knowledge. Demonstrating concern for others who have disabilities or different learning styles. Recognizing all the dimensions of diversity and disaggregating those dimensions when discussing diversity. 13