Dear CSN Community,
As this election has come to an end, I want to take a moment to reflect on our values at the College of Southern Nevada.
Reiterating the sentiments expressed in my communication last June, I am committed to fostering a safe, welcoming and inclusive college that celebrates cultures and values diverse opinions and perspectives.
These are not just my values. Last spring, representatives of our faculty, staff and students embarked on a collaborative process to define our mission, vision and values. You may have participated in the process directly, including the many surveys or on-campus listening sessions. Through this process, our shared governance created these values among others:
“CSN values a broad-based education because a diverse foundation of knowledge empowers creative thinking, problem solving and innovation.”
“CSN embraces diversity because it heals social division and injustice and promotes creativity, growth and critical thinking through the integration of many different perspectives.”
I am concerned about recent appalling news reports of harassment and aggression on college campuses post-election and want to reiterate that discrimination, harassment and violence have no place here. Any such acts will be dealt with appropriately.
We are planning some roundtables in the near future and I encourage you to come to have a collaborative discussion about any concerns, questions or issues you want to address. We will have community and campus leadership present to help. You will see an invitation to participate coming from my office shortly.
I also want you to be aware of CSN’s resources that ensure safety and an inclusive environment, included below. I would like to highlight our dynamic Office of Community Relations, Diversity and Multicultural Affairs and our new multicultural center at the North Las Vegas Campus, which provide excellent resources to help you learn more, get engaged, empower our community and celebrate each other. You may also contact my office anytime.
- President’s Office – 702.651.5600
- CSN Police Department – 702.651.2677
- Office of Equity – 702.651.5587
- Office of Community Relations, Diversity and Multicultural Affairs – 702.651.7607
Again, please rest assured our doors and arms are open to all who seek an education.
Best,
President Michael D. Richards, Ph.D.
College of Southern Nevada