The mission of the Dialogue on Diversity and Inclusion (DDI) Committee is to support Rhode Island College's strategic initiatives on inclusive excellence by acting as a resource to the administration, by advising and identifying actionable outcomes for strengthening diversity, inclusion, and equity.  The DDI was established as a Presidential Committee in 1995 to "bring together advocates, scholars, teachers, and professors, politicians, the public, and students to reflect upon the challenges and opportunities inherent in educating people for life in a democratic and increasingly pluralistic society." This program recognized that society as a whole is characterized by its rich diversity, that this diversity is a basic strength, and that such diversity is expected to increase, both within society and within the College community. As an institution of higher education, the College is committed to promoting an understanding of and appreciation for the increasingly diverse backgrounds and beliefs of those who comprise the College community, as well as the larger community of which Rhode Island College is a part.

The Dialogue on Diversity and Inclusion Committee (DDI) is excited to offer co-sponsorship funding towards programs or events for student organizations, faculty/staff, and departments on implementing events and programs related to diversity and inclusion.  Particular consideration will be awarded to programs that are linked to this year’s theme of “Combating Racism Through Education, Self-Care, & Reform.” Racism continues to have a significant impact on one’s ability to learn and succeed. It is important to raise awareness in order to acknowledge and minimize the negative effects of racism has on the development of students, staff, and faculty. DDI is committed to rooting out systemic inequities caused by race to the RIC and the RI community.

Your program or event should strive to create an open and welcoming forum as well as a convening of community.  

The DDI anticipates providing up to ten co-sponsorships up to $500.
Application Guidelines:

-Submission will be considered on a rolling-basis throughout the 2021/22 Academic Year
-One submission per student organization, per semester
-Multiple submissions are allowed per departments (connected to different committees, departments,
 organizations)
-A separate proposal must be submitted for each program/event

Proposals will be evaluated on the basis of the following criteria:

-Connection and relevance to diversity, equity, and inclusion
-Special consideration is given to programs related to the theme of Combating Racism
-Complete proposal application submitted (e.g., contact information, organization name, budget)
-Clearly identify the target audience(s)

If the program is selected for sponsorship:

 -The Dialogue on Diversity and Inclusion (DDI) MUST be formally listed as a cosponsor on any promotional
   materials
-The program will be featured on DDI’s website https://www.ric.edu/department-directory/office-diversity-equity- 
   inclusion/dialogue-diversity, on the Diversity Calendar and list of co-sponsored programs

The group will be responsible for submitting a report to DDI within 10 days after the program that includes the following:
  -Number of participants or people affected by the program/event
  -Demographics on the attendees (i.e., students, faculty, other groups)
  -Identify what resulted from your funded activity and how it contributed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and/or current theme(s)
Optional- Any photos from the event/program you would like to share. Appropriate RIC photo releases should always be obtained from the Office of College Communications and Marketing: https://www.ric.edu/department-directory/office-communications-and-marketing.