DIGITAL GCU Today AUG issue

1 6 • GCU MAGAZ I NE Note those last nine words. That’s the key. GCU’s approach to diversity starts there. “Spirituality is the lens through which we view and accomplish the work of diversity – ‘Loving your neighbors as yourself,’ Mark 12:31,” said Dr. Antoinette Farmer-Thompson, the Diversity Council chair. “Yes, diversity means dialogue. But for us it also means, ‘How do you really help the people around you, how do you have real impact – not just for today, but for generations? “High quality, affordable education is one of the best ways – if not the best – of bridging equity gaps. That’s the foundational piece for our diversity efforts and, ultimately, truly being united in purpose, by purpose and on purpose.” The Council, formed in 2015, has fostered an environment of open dialogue and thoughtful discussion with numerous opportunities for students to join in. And this year, more than ever, a traditional campus where 47 percent of the student population is diverse is focused on continuing the conversation with all students, new and returning, of every ethnicity, age, religion and socio-economic background. The goal is to make them all feel included – everyone, without exception. Right from the start of Welcome Week, students will hear about the Diversity Office, opened last spring (it’s Room 150 in the Student Life Building). They will hear that diversity outreach always has been and always will be a priority, in light of GCU’s Christian worldview. They will hear that diversity at GCU extends beyond the campus gates and right out into the neighborhood, where students regularly volunteer their time and energy. In fact, many students from the University’s multicultural neighborhood are on campus because of the University’s efforts to make a college education affordable for everyone. They will hear about the clubs devoted to diversity. They will hear why diversity is so important to the Associated Students of Grand Canyon University (ASGCU) and the Student Engagement team. There will be socials devoted to international students and those from diverse backgrounds, including a cultural celebration that is a collaboration of the Black Student Union, Latino Student Union, Hui Aloha (formerly the Hawaiian Club) and Filipino-American Student Association. Very intentional. But what’s interesting is how this all came together. Diversity affects students even before they set foot on campus, and it has happened organically. The Havocs, GCU’s nationally renowned cheering section, brings together students from a variety of backgrounds. gcu photo archive he mission statement of Grand Canyon University’s Diversity Council declares that it is “composed of faculty and staff working in a collaborative effort, together with students, to promote and enhance the University’s efforts to maintain a diverse and unified campus community in alignment with the University’s Christian mission and vision. ” Dr. Antoinette Farmer-Thompson