Reaffirming our commitment to our university's values of inclusivity and respect

Colleagues,

We join many across the country today as we recognize and reflect on many issues in our society that result in challenging and difficult times for our underserved and marginalized populations.

At KU, we are an inclusive campus climate, and one committed to diversity and equity. This commitment is of vital importance to us as campus leaders, and we recognize our responsibility to be the change we seek to create in the world, and we pledge to live up to the values to which our university subscribes.

In this spirit, Chancellor Girod represented KU in signing a statement issued by Big 12 Conference presidents and chancellors this afternoon:

“As a conference representing thousands of students, faculty, and staff from all walks of life, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect in our campus communities. Acts of racism and violence, no matter their origin or target, contradict this core commitment we share within the Big 12 Conference. Recent incidents of racial violence underscore the need for us and for all Americans to join together in addressing matters of racism and injustice in a united, meaningful way.”

We encourage those who are struggling with these events to seek help if you need it. In Lawrence, faculty and staff can work with Human Resources or local clinics and resources in our community. Students may contact Counseling and Psychological Services.

KU Medical Center employees should contact our state-sponsored Employee Assistance Program, while medical center students and residents should contact Counseling and Educational Support Services via the online portal or by calling 913-588-6580.

As always, we reaffirm our pledge to work with all of you to ensure we live up to our values and stand up to racism and violence wherever they exist.

Respectfully,

Douglas A. Girod
Chancellor

Barbara A. Bichelmeyer
Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for the Lawrence Campus

Robert D. Simari
Executive Vice Chancellor for KU Medical Center