Equity (noun) justice according to natural law or right, specifically, freedom from bias or favoritism
Justice (noun) the administration of law, the quality of being just, impartial or fair
Merriam-Webster
The lines of concern over social justice, race, intent, freedom of speech, activism, and critical race theory are scorching topics in Idaho right now. The drama of the last year and a half has touched the hearts and minds of all areas of community, students, faculty, administration, and leadership around Boise State University.
Amidst all of the concern and a lot of misinformation, our President has established a new institute, The Institute for Advancing American Values. She hopes to establish an opportunity to promote and model healthy dialogue by hosting talks, panels, and research.
For our College office of research, we have always been proud to consider ourselves a safe place. We believe that a professional environment demands a strategic and intentional protocol for behavior and process. It does not mean that we do not enjoy our time in the office; it just means that we are conscientious of our students, colleagues, stakeholders, and guests.
In March of 2020, our office transitioned to a 100% online environment. This change is now a permanent transition. Our protocols and processes have had to adapt and evolve with this change. I am also proud to say that our best practices for inclusivity and accessibility have transitioned with us.
Great topic, Andrea!
------------------------------
Michelle Davis, M.Ed.
Research Administrator, Office of Research
College of Health Sciences, Boise State University
michelledavis3@boisestate.edu------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 07-19-2021 11:47
From: Andrea Buford
Subject: Research Admin and Social Justice
I know.... it's a little bit of a stretch. But... justice can be a lens for pretty much anything, is what I'm figuring.
Right now what I would like is to be able to add personal pronouns/gender identity - maybe just preferred pronouns- to the User Profile, so that we know how to address people in the manner they prefer and should be able to expect. Yes, it's in some people's email signature, mine included, but this seems like an obvious thing. Emails often immediately result from information we glean from Cayuse (you want to spend money on WHAT?????); we can at least do that as well as possible.
a) is that possible?
b) how else can we bring justice to RA?
A
------------------------------
Andrea Buford
Director, Office of Sponsored Programs
Oakland University
------------------------------