What might IU do to better ensure that the university better reflects the diversity of American society?

"We cannot go backwards. We cannot get rid of affirmative action; IU must stand firm on this issue. We may need to modify it, but not get rid of it. IU must continue to support programs, with hard money, for the recruitment and retention of students of color. These programs ensure and provide the recognition of our diversity."

Randall Borst
director of services for students with disabilities, IPFW

"The great thing about the very concept of diversity is that it grants us a new way of acknowledging our equality; in diversity we are all equal. Here, we have the unique opportunity to honor the diverse contributions of different people‹diverse contributions made possible by our very differences. That opportunity is to enhance the curriculum."

Christine Patterson
director of multicultural services
IPFW

"There is not just one approach; we must take multiple approaches. To better prepare students to work in a diverse society, we must change the curriculum to make it reflect society. We have failed by not doing that. Those of us who are educators must change what we include in our teaching. We also need to change the academic environment in which we all work and study so that it will better reflect the diversity in society."

Alberto Torchinsky
dean of Latino affairs
IUB

" All students, but especially those of color, should feel they belong here, that their culture matters to all of us. Faculty should be encouraged to explore new, non-traditional areas and share their academic knowledge with the students. Staff should be aware of the different needs and perceptions students bring. Administrators should lead IU into the new century with a renewed commitment."

Kathleen Warfel
director of the new Office for Women, IUPUI,
and professor of pathology

"In the short term, we need to heighten and focus our recruitment efforts to bring more individuals from under-represented groups to our faculty and administration. Then we need to keep them here. For the long term, we should be growing our own future faculty and vice presidents in a deliberate way, starting with the young pupils in our local schools."

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