Cultural Competence in State College and University Programs in Oregon

1. How does the state of Oregon define cultural competence in higher education programs?


The state of Oregon does not have an official definition of cultural competence in higher education programs. However, it is generally understood to mean the ability to interact effectively with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. This includes understanding and respecting diversity, practicing inclusivity, promoting equity and social justice, and being aware of one’s own biases and privilege.

2. What are the specific steps that Oregon universities and colleges are taking to promote cultural competence among students and faculty?



There are several steps that Oregon universities and colleges are taking to promote cultural competence among students and faculty:

1. Diversity and inclusion training: Many universities and colleges in Oregon offer diversity and inclusion training programs for both students and faculty. These programs aim to increase awareness, understanding, and appreciation of differences among individuals, as well as provide tools for effectively engaging with different cultures.

2. Cultural competence courses: Some universities offer specific courses focused on cultural competency, such as intercultural communication or diversity in the workplace. These courses provide students with a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and identities.

3. Bias response teams: Several universities in Oregon have established bias response teams that work to address instances of discrimination or prejudice on campus. These teams also provide resources for reporting incidents of bias and offer support services for those who have experienced discrimination.

4. Student organizations: Many universities in Oregon have student-run organizations that focus on promoting cultural diversity and providing a sense of community for underrepresented groups. These groups often organize events, panels, and discussions aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding.

5. Study abroad programs: Studying abroad can greatly contribute to developing skills related to cultural competency. Many Oregon universities offer study abroad programs that allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures and gain a better understanding of global perspectives.

6. Faculty training programs: In addition to offering training for students, many universities also provide workshops and seminars for faculty members focused on promoting cultural competence in the classroom. This allows professors to create more inclusive learning environments and address issues related to diversity in their teaching methods.

7. Inclusive curriculum development: Universities are increasingly reviewing their curricula to ensure that they reflect diverse perspectives and experiences from various cultures. This includes incorporating works from authors belonging to marginalized communities or incorporating themes related to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, etc.

8. Assessment and evaluation: Many institutions have started implementing measures to assess the impact of their efforts towards promoting cultural competence. This includes gathering data on student experiences and progress, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of programs and initiatives.

Ultimately, promoting cultural competence involves a continuous effort to create an inclusive campus environment where students, faculty, and staff from all backgrounds feel welcomed, valued, and respected. Oregon universities and colleges are making strides in this direction by implementing these and other initiatives that promote diversity and celebrate different cultures.

3. In what ways is the state of Oregon incorporating diversity and inclusivity into the curriculum of its college and university programs?


The state of Oregon has taken various measures to incorporate diversity and inclusivity into the curriculum of its college and university programs. Some of these include:

1. Multicultural Education Requirement: The Oregon University System requires all public universities in the state to have a multicultural education requirement as part of their general education curriculum. This requirement ensures that students engage with diverse perspectives and experiences throughout their college education.

2. Intercultural Literacy Requirement: Many colleges and universities in Oregon have an intercultural literacy requirement, which focuses on developing students’ understanding and appreciation of different cultures, identities, and social issues.

3. Diversity Courses and Programs: Many colleges and universities in Oregon offer courses specifically focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion topics. These courses cover a wide range of subjects from race and ethnicity to gender identity, disability, and social justice.

4. Inclusive Pedagogy Training for Faculty: Several institutions in Oregon provide training for faculty members on inclusive pedagogy techniques that can help create a more welcoming learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

5. Multicultural Resource Centers: Most colleges and universities in Oregon have established multicultural resource centers that serve as hubs for promoting diversity, providing support services for underrepresented students, organizing events and workshops related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

6. Diversity Scholarships: Many institutions in Oregon offer scholarships specifically designed to support students from underrepresented groups, such as minority communities or first-generation college students.

7. Cultural Competency Workshops: Colleges and universities partner with organizations and experts to conduct cultural competency workshops for staff, faculty, and students. These workshops aim to promote understanding of different cultures and enhance inclusivity on campus.

8. Study Abroad Programs: Many study abroad programs offered by institutions in Oregon focus on providing immersive experiences that expose students to different cultures around the world.

9. Student Organizations: Students at many colleges in Oregon can join various clubs or organizations focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These organizations provide a safe space for students to express themselves, learn from each other, and celebrate diversity.

Overall, the state of Oregon recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in higher education and is taking significant steps to incorporate these values into its college and university curriculums.

4. How do colleges and universities in Oregon train their staff and faculty on cultural competency?


Colleges and universities in Oregon train their staff and faculty on cultural competency in a variety of ways, including mandatory training programs, workshops, diversity committees, and diversity-focused courses.

1. Mandatory Training Programs: Many colleges and universities in Oregon have implemented mandatory training programs for all staff and faculty that focus on cultural competency. These trainings may cover topics such as cultural awareness, sensitivity, unconscious bias, and inclusive language.

2. Workshops: Institutions often host workshops to promote cultural competence among staff and faculty. These workshops may be led by outside experts or conducted by the institution’s own diversity office or department.

3. Diversity Committees: Many colleges and universities have established diversity committees composed of staff, faculty, and students to address issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. These committees frequently organize events and provide resources to promote cultural competency for the entire campus community.

4. Diversity-Focused Courses: Colleges and universities offer courses specifically focused on cultural competency as part of their curriculum. These courses may be required for certain majors or offered as electives for all students.

In addition to these institutional efforts, many colleges and universities also integrate discussions of cultural competency into their hiring processes by including questions about diversity experiences during interviews or requiring applicants to provide a statement or plan for promoting inclusivity in their teaching or work.

Overall, colleges and universities in Oregon recognize that promoting cultural competence among their staff and faculty is an ongoing process that requires ongoing education, dialogue, reflection, and self-assessment. As a result, many institutions prioritize creating a diverse learning environment that values inclusivity at every level of the campus community.

5. What support services are available for students from diverse backgrounds at state colleges and universities in Oregon?


In Oregon, state colleges and universities have a range of support services for students from diverse backgrounds. These services may include:

1. Multicultural centers: Many state colleges and universities in Oregon have designated spaces on campus that serve as multicultural centers. These centers provide a welcoming environment for students of diverse backgrounds and offer resources such as study spaces, computer access, and cultural programming.

2. Diversity clubs and organizations: Most campuses in Oregon have student-run organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity on campus. These groups provide a sense of community for students from different backgrounds to connect and support each other.

3. Cultural events and programs: State colleges and universities often host events and programs that celebrate the various cultures represented on campus. These may include cultural festivals, workshops, lectures, film screenings, and performances.

4. Counseling services: Most campuses in Oregon provide counseling services to support students’ mental health and well-being. These services may also include dedicated counselors who specialize in working with students from diverse backgrounds.

5. Academic support: State colleges and universities offer academic support through tutoring services, writing centers, and peer mentoring programs to help all students succeed academically regardless of their background.

6. Financial aid options: Many state colleges and universities offer financial aid packages specifically designed for underrepresented minority students or first-generation college students.

7. Initiatives for LGBTQ+ Students: Several state colleges and universities have established resources for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) students such as LGBTQ+ resource centers or designated staff members trained to address the unique needs of this community.

8. Disability Services: State colleges and universities in Oregon have offices dedicated to supporting students with disabilities by providing accommodations such as note-taking assistance or extended time on exams.

9. Support for international students: Campus offices are available at many state colleges and universities to assist international students with adjusting to a new culture, academic success, visa regulations, and employment opportunities.

10. Diversity and Inclusion Trainings: Many state colleges and universities in Oregon offer diversity and inclusion training programs for faculty, staff, and students to foster a more inclusive campus community. These trainings aim to provide education on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competency, and creating an inclusive environment for all.

6. What initiatives has Oregon implemented to increase diversity among its students, faculty, and staff in higher education institutions?


Oregon has implemented several initiatives to increase diversity among its students, faculty, and staff in higher education institutions. Some of these initiatives include:

1. Equity and inclusion plans: Many universities in Oregon have developed detailed equity and inclusion plans that outline specific goals and strategies for increasing diversity on campus.

2. Recruitment and retention efforts: Universities have developed targeted recruitment and retention efforts to attract a more diverse student body, faculty, and staff. This includes partnering with high schools with diverse populations, offering scholarships to underserved communities, and implementing inclusive hiring practices.

3. Diversity training: Many universities offer diversity training programs for both students and employees to promote understanding, respect, and inclusivity within the campus community.

4. Affinity groups: Several universities in Oregon have established affinity groups for students of color, LGBTQ+ students, and other underrepresented groups. These groups provide support networks and promote cultural awareness on campus.

5. Community outreach programs: Universities have developed partnerships with local communities to promote college readiness and access among underrepresented populations.

6. Diversity-focused curriculum: Some universities have implemented courses or programs that focus on issues of diversity, social justice, or multicultural studies to enhance understanding of different cultures within the campus community.

7. Inclusive policies and resources: Universities have developed policies that promote an inclusive environment for all students regardless of their background. This may include gender-neutral restrooms, preferred name options for transgender individuals, or designated prayer spaces.

Overall, these initiatives aim to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the campus community while promoting diversity across all levels of higher education in Oregon.

7. How do colleges and universities in Oregon ensure that their policies align with principles of cultural competence?


Colleges and universities in Oregon ensure that their policies align with principles of cultural competence through multiple approaches, including:

1. Inclusive Hiring and Staff Training: Colleges and universities strive to have a diverse staff that reflects the diversity of their student body. Through inclusive hiring practices, institutions can ensure the inclusion of underrepresented groups among their faculty and staff. Additionally, they provide cultural competency training for faculty and staff to create a more inclusive campus environment.

2. Diversity and Equity Offices: Many institutions have offices or departments focused on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. These offices work with students, faculty, and staff to develop strategies to enhance cultural competence across the campus.

3. Cultural Competence as Part of Curriculum: Schools often have courses or programs that teach students about different cultures, histories, and perspectives. These courses help students develop an understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures and promote cultural competency.

4. Campus-wide Events: Colleges often hold events such as diversity fairs, workshops, seminars, cultural celebrations, etc., to promote awareness of different cultures and foster cross-cultural understanding among students.

5. Support for Diverse Student Groups: Institutions have organizations or clubs that represent various cultures or identities on campus. Supporting these groups fosters an inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds and provides opportunities for cultural exchange among students.

6. Inclusion in Policies: Policies regarding recruitment, admissions, retention rates, curriculum development are designed considering the needs of culturally diverse student populations.

7. Feedback Mechanisms: Schools gather feedback from students about their experiences on campus through surveys or focus groups. This feedback helps identify areas where improvements can be made to align with principles of cultural competence.

Overall, colleges and universities in Oregon continuously strive towards creating an inclusive environment where all individuals feel welcomed regardless of their race/ethnicity, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation or any other identities they may hold. Ongoing efforts towards inclusion demonstrate a commitment to cultural competence and are essential for creating a positive learning environment for all students.

8. Are there any specific courses or programs focused on promoting cultural competence offered by state colleges and universities in Oregon?


Yes, there are several courses and programs offered by state colleges and universities in Oregon that focus on promoting cultural competence:

1. Oregon State University: The Office of Institutional Diversity offers a Cultural Competence Certificate Program for students, faculty, and staff to enhance their understanding and ability to engage with diverse communities.

2. Portland State University: The School of Social Work offers a Graduate Certificate in Culturally Responsive Practice, which provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively with diverse populations.

3. University of Oregon: The College of Education offers a Diversity and Equity in Education Certificate, which focuses on developing cultural competency in education settings.

4. Western Oregon University: The Office of Multicultural Student Services offers a Cultural Competence Training program for students, staff, and faculty to develop cross-cultural communication skills and promote inclusivity on campus.

5. Eastern Oregon University: Students can earn a Minor in Diversity Studies, which includes courses on cultural competency, diversity issues, and social justice.

6. Southern Oregon University: The Sociology & Anthropology Department offers a course on Intercultural Communication and another on Race, Ethnicity & Gender Relations.

7. Lane Community College: The college offers a course on Multicultural Counseling Skills, which focuses on developing culturally competent counseling practices.

8. Clatsop Community College: This college offers an Introduction to Diversity course that explores various dimensions of diversity and promotes cultural competency through self-reflection and understanding different perspectives.

9. Chemeketa Community College: The Office of Diversity & Equity provides workshops and trainings for staff and faculty that focus on developing cultural competency in the classroom and workplace.

10. Mt Hood Community College: Students can enroll in the Diversity Studies program that includes courses such as Multiculturalism & Social Justice Advocacy, Global Intercultural Issues, and Queer Studies.

9. How do admissions processes at state universities and colleges in Oregon take into account a student’s cultural background or identity?


Each state university and college in Oregon has its own admissions process, so there is no single answer to this question. However, most institutions do take a holistic approach to admissions, considering a variety of factors such as academic performance, extracurricular activities, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. Some institutions also have specific programs or initiatives in place to support students from underrepresented or marginalized communities, which may be taken into consideration during the admissions process.

Additionally, many institutions in Oregon are committed to diversity and inclusion and strive to create a campus environment that is welcoming and supportive for students from all backgrounds. This may be reflected in the admissions process through efforts to recruit a diverse student body and promote inclusivity within the campus community.

Some schools also allow applicants to self-identify their cultural background or identity on their application materials. This information can help admissions committees better understand an applicant’s unique experiences and perspectives.

In general, while an individual applicant’s cultural background or identity may not be the sole determining factor in the admissions decision, it may certainly be considered along with other factors as part of the holistic review process. It is always best to check with each institution directly for more details about their specific admissions processes and how they account for students’ cultural backgrounds.

10. Are there opportunities for students to engage with diverse communities through service learning or community outreach programs at state universities and colleges in Oregon?


Yes, there are opportunities for students to engage with diverse communities through service learning or community outreach programs at state universities and colleges in Oregon. Many of these institutions have dedicated centers or programs that facilitate community engagement and partnerships with local organizations and diverse communities.

Algunos ejemplos incluyen:

1) The Center for Civic Engagement at Oregon State University offers a variety of service learning programs and community-based research projects that allow students to work with diverse populations in the community.

2) Portland State University has a Community Engagement program and a Diversity & Multicultural Student Services department that organize volunteer opportunities, cultural events, and diversity workshops for students.

3) Southern Oregon University has the Ashland Community Service-Learning Program, which connects students with community organizations for hands-on learning experiences.

4) The University of Oregon has the Holden Center for Leadership and Community Engagement, which offers service trips, social justice workshops, and other programs focused on engaging with diverse communities.

5) Western Oregon University has the Center for Civic Engagement, which coordinates service learning projects that address issues such as poverty, education inequity, and environmental sustainability.

In addition to these centers and programs, many state universities and colleges in Oregon also have student clubs and organizations focused on promoting diversity and social justice issues. These groups often offer volunteer opportunities or organize events in partnership with local organizations serving diverse communities.

11. What measures does the state of Oregon have in place to address instances of discrimination or bias within its higher education institutions?


The state of Oregon has several measures in place to address discrimination and bias within its higher education institutions, including:

1. Non-Discrimination Policies: All Oregon higher education institutions are required to have written policies prohibiting discrimination or harassment based on a person’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability status or veteran status.

2. Bias Response Teams: Many universities in Oregon have established Bias Response Teams that are responsible for handling reports of bias incidents and supporting individuals who have experienced discrimination.

3. Training and Education: Oregon higher education institutions provide training and education programs for faculty, staff and students to raise awareness about discrimination and promote a more inclusive campus environment.

4. Grievance Procedures: Students who experience discrimination at an Oregon university can file a grievance with the school’s designated office or department. The grievance process is designed to provide a fair and prompt investigation of the complaint.

5. Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Most universities in Oregon have diversity and inclusion initiatives in place to foster a more welcoming and inclusive campus community for all students, faculty, staff and visitors.

6. Equity Programs: There are also equity programs at many Oregon universities that offer resources such as mentorship programs and academic support services for underrepresented students.

7. Anti-Harassment Policies: All higher education institutions in Oregon are required by law to have anti-harassment policies that prohibit any form of harassment based on protected characteristics.

8. Office of Institutional Equity: Many universities in Oregon have an Office of Institutional Equity that is responsible for ensuring compliance with state laws related to equal opportunity and non-discrimination.

9. Reporting Systems: Most universities also provide multiple avenues for reporting incidents of discrimination or bias, including anonymous reporting options.

10. Partnership with State Agencies: The state works closely with agencies such as the Oregon Department of Justice Civil Rights Division to enforce laws against discrimination in higher education institutions.

11. Sanctions for Violations: Violations of non-discrimination policies may result in sanctions for students, faculty or staff, ranging from educational interventions to disciplinary action.

12. Do state colleges and universities participate in diversity training or workshops to promote cultural competency among students, faculty, and staff?


It is becoming increasingly common for state colleges and universities to have diversity training or workshops as part of their efforts to promote cultural competency among students, faculty, and staff. This can include specific programs or initiatives targeting diversity and inclusion, as well as incorporating diversity and cultural competency into broader training programs for employees. Additionally, many schools have student organizations or clubs focused on promoting diverse perspectives and facilitating conversations about cultural competence. Overall, the goal of these initiatives is to create a more inclusive environment where all members of the campus community feel valued and respected. However, the extent to which these programs are implemented may vary from school to school.

13. How do state higher education institutions incorporate issues of social justice into their curriculum to promote cultural competence?


1. Include courses on diversity and social justice: State higher education institutions can incorporate courses that focus on topics such as race, gender, sexuality, religion, and class. These courses can provide students with a deeper understanding of social justice issues and promote cultural competence.

2. Infuse diversity and social justice in core curriculum: State universities can also infuse topics of diversity and social justice into their core curriculum, which includes general education requirements for all students. This ensures that all students are exposed to these important topics regardless of their major.

3. Partner with diverse communities: State universities can partner with local diverse communities to offer service-learning opportunities for students. This allows students to interact with individuals from different backgrounds, learn about their experiences, and develop a deeper understanding of social justice issues.

4. Incorporate multicultural perspectives in course materials: Professors can incorporate diverse perspectives into their teaching materials such as readings, assignments, and media. This exposes students to different viewpoints and helps them develop critical thinking skills around issues of culture and social justice.

5. Offer training for faculty and staff: Higher education institutions can offer training for faculty and staff on how to effectively incorporate cultural competence into the curriculum. This can range from workshops on inclusive teaching practices to discussions on issues of diversity and equity.

6. Provide opportunities for dialogue: State universities can create safe spaces for students to engage in open dialogue about various social justice issues. This could include hosting events or forums where students can share their experiences and discuss ways to promote cultural competence on campus.

7. Integrate real-world experiences: Incorporating real-world experiences like internships or study abroad programs can expose students to different cultures and help them develop cross-cultural skills. These experiences allow students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom in a practical setting.

8. Encourage self-reflection: State universities can encourage self-reflection among students through written reflections or discussions that prompt them to think critically about their own biases, privilege, and assumptions. This can help students develop a greater understanding of social justice issues and their own role in promoting cultural competence.

9. Explore intersectionality: Higher education institutions can incorporate intersectionality into the curriculum – the idea that individuals may experience multiple forms of oppression or privilege at once. This can help students understand the complex nature of social justice issues and how various identities intersect to shape one’s experiences.

10. Offer diversity-based student organizations: State universities can support diversity-based student organizations that provide spaces for students to engage in meaningful dialogue and advocacy around social justice issues. These organizations also offer opportunities for students to take a leadership role in promoting cultural competence on campus.

11. Conduct campus-wide diversity events: Institutions can organize campus-wide events that focus on diversity and social justice, such as guest speaker lectures, film screenings, or panel discussions. These events not only raise awareness but also provide opportunities for cross-cultural learning and dialogue.

12. Include faculty from diverse backgrounds: Having faculty members from diverse backgrounds bring different perspectives into the classroom and create a more inclusive learning environment for students. State universities can actively recruit diverse faculty members to promote cultural competence in the curriculum.

13. Evaluate and revise curriculum regularly: It is important for state universities to regularly evaluate their curriculum to ensure it reflects current research and best practices on issues of social justice and diversity. Based on this evaluation, changes can be made to ensure that these issues are effectively addressed in the curriculum.

14. Are there any partnerships between state colleges/universities and local communities to support cultural understanding and inclusivity?


Many state colleges and universities have partnerships with local communities to support cultural understanding and inclusivity. These partnerships can take various forms, such as collaborations on community programs and events, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and student engagement opportunities.

Some examples of these partnerships include:

1. Community-based learning programs: Many state colleges and universities offer community-based learning programs where students engage in service-learning projects in partnership with local organizations. These projects often focus on addressing issues of social justice, diversity, and inclusivity within the community.

2. Diversity councils: Some state colleges/universities have established diversity councils that serve as liaisons between the university and diverse communities. The council works with community leaders to promote cultural understanding and inclusivity on campus and in the surrounding areas.

3. Intercultural centers: Many state colleges/universities have established intercultural centers that provide resources, services, and programming to support diverse student populations. These centers often collaborate with community organizations to promote cultural exchange events and facilitate dialogue between students from different backgrounds.

4. Study abroad programs: State colleges/universities may partner with local organizations to offer study abroad programs focused on immersive cultural experiences for students. These programs aim to increase cross-cultural understanding and respect among participants.

5. Diversity training/workshops: State colleges/universities may partner with local businesses or community organizations to offer diversity training or workshops for employees or community members. These sessions are designed to promote cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in the workplace or community settings.

6. Cultural festivals/events: State colleges/universities may collaborate with local communities to organize cultural festivals or events on campus that celebrate diversity through music, food, art, and other activities.

Overall, these partnerships between state colleges/universities and local communities play a critical role in promoting cultural understanding, acceptance, and inclusivity within both the campus environment and the wider community.

15. How do college/university campuses in Oregon celebrate diverse cultures, traditions, and identities?


Many college and university campuses in Oregon celebrate diverse cultures, traditions, and identities through various events and initiatives. Some common ways they do this include:

1. Cultural festivals and events: Many colleges in Oregon host cultural festivals and events that showcase the traditions, food, music, and art of different cultures. These events allow students to learn about and experience various cultures firsthand.

2. Multicultural centers: Most colleges in Oregon have multicultural centers or offices dedicated to promoting diversity on campus. These centers often organize events, workshops, and activities that celebrate different cultures and facilitate intercultural dialogue.

3. Student organizations: Many colleges have student-run organizations focused on specific cultural groups or identities such as the African American Student Union or the LGBTQ+ Alliance. These groups organize events and provide a safe space for students to connect with others who share their culture or identity.

4. Diversity programming: Colleges often offer courses, seminars, workshops, and guest lectures that promote diversity awareness and understanding.

5. Inclusive housing options: Some colleges offer housing options for students who want to live with others from similar cultural backgrounds or identities.

6. Campus celebrations: Special days such as Black History Month, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Pride Month, etc., are often recognized on college campuses through various events and activities.

7. Opportunities for international exchange: Many colleges in Oregon have partnerships with universities around the world, allowing students to study abroad and experience different cultures first-hand.

8. Support services for diverse communities: Some schools have specialized support services available for international students or underrepresented minority groups on campus.

9. Diversity trainings for staff/faculty: Colleges in Oregon may also provide diversity training programs for faculty/staff to help promote an inclusive environment on campus.

10. Collaborations with local communities/organizations: Colleges often collaborate with local community groups and organizations to celebrate diverse cultures through joint programming or service projects.

16. Does Oregon’s government have any policies or initiatives specifically addressing the need for increased cultural competence in higher education?


Yes, the Oregon government has several policies and initiatives in place to promote increased cultural competence in higher education. These include:

1. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Plan: In 2017, the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) adopted a DEI Plan to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels of the state’s higher education system.

2. Office of Community Colleges and Workforce Development DEI Advisory Council: The Office of Community Colleges and Workforce Development created an advisory council that focuses on increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in community colleges across the state.

3. Culturally Responsive Practices for K-12 Educators: The Oregon Department of Education provides resources and professional development opportunities to K-12 educators to help them incorporate culturally responsive practices in their teaching.

4. Minority Serving Institutions Initiative: This initiative aims to increase diversity and success at Oregon’s minority-serving institutions by providing support for recruitment, retention, and graduation programs.

5. Equitable Access Initiative: This initiative seeks to increase access to higher education for underrepresented groups by providing scholarships and other resources.

6. Cultural Competency Training for State Employees: All state employees are required to complete cultural competency training as part of their professional development.

7. Collaborative Partnerships with Tribes: The HECC has established formal partnerships with Tribal Nations in Oregon to promote Native American student success in higher education.

8. Campus Climate Improvement Grants Program: This program provides funding for projects that aim to improve campus climate for underrepresented students in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

9. Diversity Action Plans at Each Public Institution: All public universities and community colleges in Oregon are required to develop a Diversity Action Plan outlining their goals, strategies, and progress towards promoting diversity on campus.

10. Statewide Culturally Responsive Professional Learning Network (CRPLN): The CRPLN is a network of educators and leaders in the education field who collaborate and share resources to promote cultural competence in Oregon’s education systems.

17. What resources are available for students from marginalized communities to access cultural competency training at state universities and colleges in Oregon?


There are several potential resources available for students from marginalized communities to access cultural competency training at state universities and colleges in Oregon. These can include:

1. Diversity and Multicultural Centers: Many universities and colleges have centers dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency on campus. These centers often offer workshops, trainings, and other resources for students from marginalized communities.

2. Student Clubs and Organizations: There may be student clubs or organizations on campus that focus on promoting cultural competency or supporting students from specific marginalized communities. These groups may offer training opportunities or serve as a support network for students.

3. Counseling and Health Services: Some universities and colleges offer counseling or health services that include cultural competency or sensitivity training for staff members. This can provide support for students from marginalized communities who may be seeking mental health services.

4. Office of Equity and Inclusion: Many institutions have an Office of Equity and Inclusion that is responsible for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity on campus. These offices may offer workshops or trainings related to cultural competency.

5. Academic Departments: Certain academic departments may also offer courses or workshops that focus on diversity, equity, inclusivity, or cultural competency within their specific discipline.

6. Community Organizations: There may also be community organizations outside of the university that provide cultural competency training or support services for students from marginalized communities.

Individuals interested in accessing cultural competency training at their state university or college should reach out to any of these resources to inquire about available opportunities. They can also speak with advisors, faculty members, or administrators who may be able to provide further guidance and support.

18. How do state universities and colleges in Oregon recruit and retain a diverse faculty and staff?


Oregon state universities and colleges have a variety of initiatives in place to recruit and retain a diverse faculty and staff. Some examples include:

1. Diversity hiring goals and strategies: Many universities and colleges have set specific diversity hiring goals and developed targeted recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse pool of candidates.

2. Inclusive job postings: Universities and colleges make sure their job postings use inclusive language and highlight their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

3. Partnering with diverse organizations: They reach out to organizations that represent underrepresented groups to promote job openings and participate in career fairs.

4. Internships and fellowships: Oregon state universities provide internships or fellowships designed for minority candidates, creating opportunities for students to gain experience and potentially return as faculty or staff members after graduation.

5. Diversity training programs: Universities offer diversity training programs for current faculty, staff, and administrators to create awareness about unconscious bias, fostering inclusivity in the workplace.

6. Faculty mentoring programs: Some institutions have mentoring programs that pair junior faculty from underrepresented groups with senior faculty members who can provide support, guidance, resources, and help build networks.

7. Affinity groups: Many universities have established employee affinity groups that serve as support systems for employees from underrepresented backgrounds. These groups also work towards promoting diversity on campus.

8. Inclusive policies: Institutions have policies that protect against discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, etc., creating a safe working environment for all employees.

9. Competitive benefits packages: Universities offer competitive benefits packages that include healthcare coverage, retirement plans, childcare assistance options, tuition reimbursement programs among others to attract top talent from all backgrounds.

Overall, Oregon state universities are continually reviewing their practices to ensure they are creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees so that diverse perspectives are upheld at every level of decision-making within the institution.

19. Are there any specific efforts by Oregon universities and colleges to address cultural competence in online or distance learning programs?

Yes, there are various initiatives and efforts by Oregon universities and colleges to address cultural competence in online or distance learning programs. Some of these include:

1. Diversity and Inclusion Courses: Many Oregon universities offer diversity and inclusion courses for students enrolled in online or distance learning programs. These courses cover topics such as understanding cultural differences, promoting inclusivity, and developing cultural sensitivity.

2. Training & Workshops: Several universities organize training sessions and workshops for faculty members to help them understand the importance of cultural competence in online teaching. These sessions cover strategies for creating an inclusive classroom environment, addressing cultural biases, and promoting diversity in course content.

3. Culturally Relevant Curriculum: Many universities have also started incorporating culturally relevant content into their online courses to promote diversity and cultural understanding among students. This includes diverse perspectives on various topics, representation of different cultures and identities, and discussions on social justice issues.

4. Multicultural Student Organizations: Most universities have student organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and cultural awareness among students. These groups often organize events, workshops, and discussions that are open to both traditional campus students as well as those studying online.

5. Accessible Resources: Educational institutions provide access to resources that help online students develop their understanding of different cultures. This can include electronic databases with articles on diverse topics, webinars featuring experts on specific cultures, and other digital resources that promote cultural competence.

6. Faculty Recruitment & Development: Universities also focus on recruiting a diverse group of faculty members who can bring unique perspectives into the classroom. Additionally, many institutions offer mentoring programs for faculty members to support their development in areas such as cultural competency.

Overall, Oregon universities recognize the importance of preparing their students for an increasingly diverse global workforce through providing opportunities for developing cultural competence in their online or distance learning programs.

20. How does Oregon measure the success of its higher education institutions in promoting cultural competence among students, faculty, and staff?


Oregon measures the success of its higher education institutions in promoting cultural competence through various methods, including:

1. Diversity and inclusivity initiatives: The state sets diversity and inclusivity goals for each of its public universities and community colleges. Institutions are required to report on their progress towards these goals, including measures such as enrollment and graduation rates of underrepresented minority students, retention rates of diverse faculty and staff, and diversity in leadership positions.

2. Campus climate surveys: Oregon’s public universities conduct regular campus climate surveys to assess the experiences of students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds. These surveys measure factors such as feelings of belonging, inclusion, and equity on campus as well as experiences with discrimination or bias.

3. Cultural competency training: Many higher education institutions in Oregon offer cultural competency training for their faculty and staff. These trainings aim to increase awareness and understanding of different cultures, identities, and experiences, ultimately promoting a more inclusive campus environment.

4. Student retention and graduation rates: Higher education institutions track the retention and graduation rates of underrepresented minority students to assess whether they are supporting these students adequately. This data can help identify areas for improvement in promoting cultural competence on campus.

5. Partnerships with diverse communities: Many Oregon colleges and universities have partnerships with local communities to promote cultural exchange and understanding. These partnerships provide opportunities for students to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds outside of the classroom setting.

Overall, Oregon uses a multifaceted approach to measure the success of its higher education institutions in promoting cultural competence among students, faculty, and staff. By tracking data on diversity efforts, conducting climate surveys, offering training opportunities, monitoring student success rates, and fostering partnerships with diverse communities, the state aims to continually improve its efforts towards creating more inclusive campuses.