Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA)

Mandate
The Committee will work to encourage knowledge for the MRSA community that an inclusive environment welcomes, respects, values and celebrates the rich diversity of all people, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, language, religious beliefs, gender identity, disability and access. The Committee will support the Board, staff and membership in educational opportunities, special events, and best practices to enhance awareness and celebrate diversity.  

Committee Membership

Chair: Director at Large – EDIA
One (1) Board member
Minimum of three (3) members

Members are appointed by the Board following a call for expressions of interest.

Length of term is two (2) years  

Preference will be given to members who self-disclose that they are members of an equity seeking group and/or express knowledge and skills that will assist the goals of the committee such as:

  • current knowledge of EDIA best practices and a strong desire to continually learn about this work  through formal and informal resources;
  • broad understanding of marginalization, racism, and discrimination, which may have developed from a lived experience;
  • passion for internal and external relationship building, connecting with the MRSA community and advocating for members within their university roles.

Roles and Responsibilities

Meet once per month or as necessary.

Build and gather resources, tools and information on best practices for EDIA, understanding of marginalization, racism, and all forms of discrimination. 

Advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility on campus and promote solutions and improvements for internal and external activities.

Advise and recommend improvements to policies and procedures, and priorities to the Board and Executive Director with respect to EDIA.

Contribute to planning and organizing events that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity.

Propose and implement member educational opportunities designed to enhance awareness of equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility issues on campus and within society.

Supporting the initiatives and recommendations of the EDIA Joint Task Force Committee, other identified university EDIA objectives and equity-seeking groups.

Reporting

The DAL-EDIA is responsible for reporting regularly to the Board and Executive Director, and/or larger membership.  

Reporting may include information, discussion, calls to action and budgeting needs which may further include detailing progress, outcomes and recommendations.

Level of Authority

This is an operational committee reporting to the Executive Director.  Therefore, authority to take action is dependent upon the Executive Director’s authority and approval.

The Executive Director will provide approval to action the committee’s recommendations, plans and/or activities as these activities fall within the operational programs and/or services offered by the MRSA. The Executive Director will likely take the committee’s recommendations.

Executive Board Approved: September 25, 2024

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