Board of Visitors' Special Committee on Diversity
The Special Committee on Diversity was established by the Board of Visitors at its April 2003 meeting, following a recommendation by the Special Committee on Governance. The Special Committee on Diversity has been asked to review diversity initiatives at the University in coordination with the Commission on Diversity established by President John T. Casteen, III.
Mission Statement: The mission of the Special Committee on Diversity of the Board of Visitors is the encouragement and support of an atmosphere at the University that ensures that diverse members of the University of Virginia and Charlottesville community are treated equally and fairly. The accomplishment of this mission is essential to creating an educational experience for our students to prepare them for productive and responsible citizenship in the world beyond this community. The Special Committee defines diversity to include race and ethnicity, age, gender, disability status, sexual orientation, religious and national origin, socioeconomic status, and other aspects of individual experience and identity.
Committee Members:
Warren M. Tompson (Chair)
Thomas J. Bliley, Jr.
Lewis F. Payne
John R.M. Rodney
Georgia M. Willis
John O. Wynne
Gordon F. Rainey Jr. (Ex Officio)
Links/News:
Casteen, BOV Applaud Diversity Commissions Plan - Top News Daily - June 12, 2004 - It would take more than the threat of a tornado to deter the U.Va. Board of Visitor’s meeting, held on Grounds Friday. As the dark clouds lifted, a silver lining prevailed for the University — a plan to establish a chief officer for diversity and equity and to develop bold initiatives that will quickly position U.Va. as a leader among public institutions in these areas. Read More.
Embracing Diversity in the Pursuit of Excellence - Top News Daily - June 12, 2004 - A written transcript of the Oral Presentation to President Casteen and the Board of Visitors' Special Committee on Diversity. Presented by Angela M. Davis and Michael J. Smith, co-chairs, President’s Commission on Diversity and Equity 11 June 2004. Read More.
Diversity Commission Chair Meets With Board
Oct. 3, 2003 - Politics Prof. Michael J. Smith and Angela Davis, associate dean of students for student life, met for the first time with the Board of Visitors' Special Committee on Diversity in the board room of the Rotunda... Read More.
Board of Visitors Approves New Diversity Committee
April 4, 2003 -- Stressing the need to send a strong message that the University of Virginia is addressing diversity issues, University President John T. Casteen III and Gordon F. Rainey Jr., the newly elected rector of the University’s Board of Visitors, announced the creation of two groups that will be charged with evaluating University initiatives that address diversity and identifying action steps and policy changes. Top News.