May 12, 2016

Dear colleagues,

We are pleased to share with you the attached draft of the IDEAL Framework: A Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This document represents more than two years of work by the university, and encompasses efforts of the University-wide Diversity Committee and the Division of Equity, Inclusion.

This framework is designed to help guide the University of Oregon as it works to make diversity, equity and inclusion a reality for all students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. In order for this important work to be successful, the IDEAL Framework must be integrated into both the Strategic Framework and the presidential priorities of excellence, access and experience.

The IDEAL Framework directly complements our other strategic efforts in that it builds upon previous diversity plans. The current goals and objectives incorporated into the IDEAL Framework are aspirational and vital to enhance the diversity excellence of the university.

We have posted this draft for your review and comment. Please send any comments to feedback@uoregon.edu through Thursday, May 26.  We will consider all feedback provided and then share with you a finalized version that will help carry us until the 2016-17 academic year and beyond.

Additionally, we wish to say a heartfelt “Thank you!” to all of the members of our campus and community who contributed to the IDEAL Framework process, especially those who served on the University-wide Diversity Committee.

Sincerely,

Michael H. Schill
President and Professor of Law

Yvette Alex-Assensoh
Vice President for Equity and Inclusion