Franklin Pierce University Issues Statement on Racism

June 26, 2020

A month ago, the killing of George Floyd, like so many senseless deaths before, offered a stark reminder of the systemic racism that continues to plague our nation. Mr. Floyd’s murder set in motion a long overdue refusal to accept the status quo, and revealed in thousands of peaceful protests Americans' collective commitment to justice and equality for all. Franklin Pierce University is resolute in its stand against racism and in its commitment to honor and support the success of all students, regardless of their race, creed, gender identity, or sexual orientation. We believe Black lives matter and that every one of our students deserves to be equally respected, valued, and cherished.

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• The creation of an Office of Diversity and Inclusion;
• The hiring of a Chief Diversity Officer;
• The establishment of the John H. Eason '67 Endowed Scholarship in recognition of the first Black graduate of Franklin Pierce and member of our distinguished Board of Trusteees;
• The planned launch, through our Office of University Advancement, of an ALANA (African, Latino, Asian, Native American Association) Affinity group that will seek to connect Black and Indigenous alumni and students with shared experiences for networking and mentoring;
• The development of a curriculum map to demonstrate where diversity and inclusion are addressed in courses and in co-curricular life, and identify where additions need to be made; and
• A similar audit of our operations to ensure that our faculty and staff reflect the diversity of the students we serve.

In reflecting on this University commitment, President Kim Mooney stated: “I want all Ravens to know that as your president I am completely committed to our collective efforts to eradicate racism. Black lives matter—and together we can and will make a difference. We will not tolerate the marginalization of any individual based on their race, their religion, their gender identity, or their sexual orientation. No Raven will ever be alone.”

Franklin Pierce University is also constructing a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion section on its website to inform and guide its efforts. All faculty, staff, students, and alumni are asked to participate in additional virtual Community Conversations on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion now being scheduled, and to monitor their email for updates.

“The diversity of our undergraduate and graduate population has increased every year over the past five years, but we have a long way to go to achieve our goals and to do our part to heal the open wounds of racism that remain across our country, our state, and even here at Franklin Pierce," stated President Mooney. “I ask that all Ravens join me in our efforts to make a lasting and significant impact.”

Franklin Pierce University’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Statement:

We Believe:

• In the intrinsic worth of every person.
• In the value of diversity and inclusion.
• That our differences - perspectives, experiences, backgrounds - strengthen our
  community.
• That Franklin Pierce University is a place where all are welcome.
  
  
  We Are Dedicated to:
  
  
• Embracing every person for who they are and who they wish to become.
• Addressing inequality and promoting equity.
• Fostering a culture of care, respect, and safety within and outside the University.
• Nurturing the self-discovery and self-worth of every student.
  
  

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