Letter: Central Michigan University must strive for multiculturalism

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As I reflect on the words and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., I am reminded of the impact Dr. King’s work has on the students of this generation. It also serves as a reminder to me, as president of Central Michigan University, that diversity is an inherent ingredient of an excellent education. As publisher Malcolm Forbes once said, “The goal of education is to replace an empty mind with an open mind.”

An educational experience that fails to expose students to multicultural perspectives or that does not include interaction in a diverse community simply doesn’t measure up. All students graduating from CMU must be able to take their places in the global village. We must continue to build a multicultural academic community in order to prepare our students for future success.

Research shows that diversity does influence student learning in and beyond the classroom. Therefore, it is imperative to provide students, faculty and staff with the skills necessary to learn, teach and work effectively in any environment. No institution can achieve excellence without diversity.

I believe that a diverse work force and educational environment are directly related to the success of the institution. More importantly, it is essential in preparing students to participate effectively in the diverse workplace of today.

I’ d like to offer a few thoughts about where I would like to see us go as a community in regards to diversity.

Diversity is being inclusive and providing access — providing the tremendous power of a college education to all who wish to pursue their dreams. With that comes an emphasis on excellence — excellence in how we teach — excellence in holding our students to rigorous standards — excellence in creating an environment that fosters civility and provides an opportunity to communicate and learn from our differences.

We must continue to develop, enhance and assess our curricular and co-curricular activities as it relates to diversity on our campus and in the community.

We must create a culture in which our individual identities are celebrated along with an understanding, appreciation and respect for ways in which we differ.

And, given the global nature of our world, having a diverse campus and community and an international understanding of other cultures simply makes good sense.

Today, I put forth a challenge to build upon the words, tireless work and sacrifice of Dr. King. There has been much talk about the diversity issues at hand. It is time to move in a direction where solutions to these challenges are addressed and initiatives put in place to reach measurable goals.

Mahatma Ghandi once said, “ You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Together we must use our collective knowledge, experience, perspectives and influence to be a change agent for diversity at CMU, in Mount Pleasant and our greater communities. Remember that each and every one of us brings unique talents, skills and ideas that, combined together, will help CMU meet the challenges of a new work force, community service and student body.

Let us rejoice in our uniqueness, celebrate our commonalities, as well as our differences, and work together to truly fulfill our mission and the dream of Dr. King. Collectively, we can enrich the work and academic environment at CMU with new solutions, ideas and diverse perspectives.

Sincerely,
Dr. George E. Ross
President, Central Michigan University