UMW’s Board of Visitors approved the “Principles on Diversity and Inclusion and the University’s Statement of Community Values” on February 19.
In an email to faculty and staff, President Rick Hurley reiterated the significance of these principles: “As the University seeks to demonstrate and embrace its continuing commitment to diversity and inclusion, it is important to articulate the values and guiding principles that will influence the development of the institution. These statements are a part of the university’s core value of honor and responsibility to others that have been a long standing focus of the institution. Students, faculty, staff, administrators and community members provided assistance and guidance to articulate these principles in a way that is meaningful to the campus and community and which embodies a vision for a more diverse and inclusive institution.
During this time of reflection as the nation celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Freedom Rides and the quest for equality and social justice, these principles serve as a reminder for all who inhabit the Mary Washington community to continue to be models for fairness and equity. The adoption of these documents is the responsibility of the entire university and I hope that we will strive to be the living representatives of these words.”
