The College diversity committee, Steps Beyond Statements, advises the President and Chief Diversity Officer while advancing initiatives that foster an inclusive, equitable, accessible, and welcoming environment for students and employees. The committee is asked to:
- Assess campus climate using institutional data, surveys, and other evidence to identify barriers, disparities, and opportunities for improvement.
- Recommend strategic priorities and monitor progress on diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging goals, including an annual summary of accomplishments, concerns, data, and next steps.
- Promote inclusive teaching, learning, dialogue, and community-building through professional development, consultation, and educational activities that support cultural awareness, mutual respect, and belonging.
Our Goals and Commitments
The Steps Beyond Statements Committee focuses on tangible actions to promote inclusivity and equity.
Key Goals for the 2026-2027 Academic Year
- Advancing Pluralism: As part of an initiative with SUNY and Interfaith America, strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion through pluralism, dialogue, and meaningful engagement across differences.
- Combatting Antisemitism and Islamophobia: Foster an informed and inclusive campus community through education, dialogue, and engagement to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia.
Time Commitment for Members:
- The main committee meets monthly for an hour.
- Subcommittees meet as needed, typically twice a month.
- Members serve from September to May, guided by the vision of the Chief Diversity Officer.
Subcommittees and Their Focus Areas
Our subcommittees allow members to contribute based on their interests and expertise. Each group plays a vital role in advancing the committee’s mission.
Pluralism Working Group: Develop an action plan that leverages institutional leadership and co-curricular engagement. Plan events to encourage cross-cultural engagement and collaboration.
Antisemitism & Islamophobia Task Force: Offer educational programming and plan events to address interfaith dialogue and engagement.
Fall 2026 Offerings:
- October 15, 11:00am – 12:15pm in the Ellipse
Interfaith Dialogue: An Interfaith Panel on Community, Identity & Hope featuring diverse perspectives and dialogue
October 20, 12:30-1:30 pm in Holocaust Museum
Gino Bartali: Cycling Champion, Individual of Courage
October 22, 3:00-4:15 pm in Room 1106
The Mediterranean Mosaic: The Architecture of Islamic and Norman Sicily
Get Involved
Are you passionate about making RCC a more inclusive and equitable place? Join the Steps Beyond Statements Committee and contribute to meaningful change on campus. Whether through policy development, organizing events, or raising awareness, your voice matters.
For more information or to get involved, contact Sha-Tanna Gray at [email protected] or Stacy Casden at [email protected]. Together, we can take steps beyond statements to create a stronger, more inclusive RCC.
T.H.R.I.V.E Initiative
The T.H.R.I.V.E. Initiative is a comprehensive student Training program designed to foster Health, Resilience, Inclusion, Vibrancy, and Empowerment within the RCC community. Through a series of interactive sessions, students will engage in critical discussions and skill-building exercises aimed at equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate various challenges they may encounter during their college years and beyond. Learn more about the T.H.R.I.V.E. Initiative.
Committee Members
- Dr. Sugeily Rodriquez
- Galle Duvivier
- Gina Lovitch
- Dr. Shamika Mitchell
- Angiel Nelson
- Joe Planck
- Shaila Watson
- Sabrina Charles-Pierre
Co-Chairs
- Stacy Casden
- Sha-Tanna Gray
Advisor
- Melissa L. Roy