Prior to the development of the Athletic Department’s Gender Equity Diversity and Inclusion Committee (GEDI), the University’s strategic planning process has been inclusive process including all Davenport University stakeholders which includes initiatives relative to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The University understands the value of DEI and in efforts to promote the values associated with DEI on campus has developed the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. The Athletic Department has been an included constituent in the council since it’s development. The vision of the DEI council is listed below:
WE WILL be a community where similarities and differences are respected and celebrated, multiple perspectives and diversity of thought are embraced and people are engaged in inter-cultural experiences, including international education opportunities
WE WILL actively promote full participation of all community members with an acknowledgement of the challenges faced by people from historically marginalized groups.
WE WILL be the leading example of a diverse and equitable organization as reflected by the composition and behavior of our faculty, staff and students.
With the move to NCAA Division II and in alignment with the University’s continued focus on DEI, the Athletic Department initiated a formal Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Assessment by Strategic Edge Consultants. As a result of the assessment, the Athletic Department developed the GEDI Committee which includes many campus entities to assist in development of a GEDI strategic plan and assist in continual evaluation of GEDI initiatives in the athletic department.
Fostering inclusion and creating a positive student-athlete experience are key guiding values for the Davenport University Athletic Department and the University. The Athletic Department understands that creating a safe, welcoming environment that reflects the diverse community we live in will have a positive impact on the educational experience of our student-athletes. Our objective is to develop a Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategic plan that that aligns with the Vision and DEI initiatives of the University and continue to assess the state of the athletic department in reference to GEDI.
Below outlines the goals as stated in the GEDI Strategic Plan:
Goal 1: We will review and revise as needed the Athletic Department’s commitment statement(s) to gender equity, diversity and inclusion (GEDI).
Goal 2: We will consistently develop and continuously review data related to monitoring the Department’s commitment to GEDI.
Goal 3: We will develop and maintain a plan to promote and publicize GEDI efforts in the athletic department and institution as applicable.
Goal 4: We will monitor and evaluate the athletic department’s organization and structure annually with consideration of promoting GEDI.
Goal 5: We will continue to evaluate policies and procedures to ensure equitable access for all student-athletes.
