Three NWCCU member institutions received the INSIGHT into Diversity Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award. The HEED Award is the only national award that honors individual institutions for being outstanding examples of institutions committed to making diversity and inclusion a top priority across their campuses.
Oregon State University was awarded the HEED Award for its initiatives to advance inclusive excellence. Of these initiatives, Oregon State launched the Dr. Lawrence Griggs Center for Black and Indigenous Student Support; created a new structure to support employee affinity commissions; and launched a four-part seminar to provide tools to university leadership to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion across the institution. Additionally, OSU’s President and Provost’s Leadership Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion adopted a comprehensive strategy to support the retention and success of employees of color.
Portland State University received the HEED Award for its accomplishments in equity and racial justice. Portland State’s accomplishments include its three-year racial justice and equity plan, Time to Act; five federally funded TRIO programs that support the retention and success of low-income, first-generation, and disabled students; intersectional affinity resources centers; and a leadership academy, supporting the professional development of employees from minoritized background; among others. PSU was also recognized as an ACLU Racial Justice and Equity Scholar for its efforts to support and advance underrepresented employees.
University of Oregon was awarded the HEED Award for its program, DucksRISE (Research, Internship, & Student Engagement). DucksRISE is a six-month, cohort-based program focused on equitable post-graduation outcomes for underserved students, centering Black, Indigenous, people of color, first generation, and low-income students through educational activities, career exploration and readiness, professional development, tailored connections, and mentorship experiences. Students develop competencies through a one-credit career readiness seminar, internships, research fellowships, job shadowing opportunities, study abroad, and more.
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