Western Extension Directors Association
Charlotte Eberlein
Chair
University of Idaho
Jim Christenson
Secretary and
Chair-elect
University of Arizona
Scott Reed
Past Chair
Oregon State University
Lyla Houglum
Executive Director
Oregon State University
Rick Standiford
ECOP Representative
to WEDA Executive Committee
University of California / April 6, 2009
MEMO
To: To: John Winder (WA), Jan Carroll (CO), Dallas Holmes (UT), Charity Buchert (ID), Jim Christenson (AZ), Linda Manton (CA), Dan McGrath (OR), and Scott Reed (OR)
From: Charlotte Eberlein, WEDA Chair
Re: Re: Implementing the WEDA Diversity Recommendations
In September 2008, the Western Extension Directors Association (WEDA) Diversity Committee presented a comprehensive list of recommendations on advancing diversity that WEDA would like to begin to implement. The first recommendation is that WEDA establish a Western Region Diversity Catalyst Team. You are invited to serve as a member of that team. Jan Carroll has agreed to convene the group and you should be hearing from her soon.
WEDA would like the Diversity Catalyst Team to address the following items during 2009:
1.  Review and recommend effective training materials for search committees at WEDA institutions; materials should cover topics such as how and why committees should attend to diversity issues, the management of unconscious bias, complicity, and cultural sensitivity.
2.  Review and recommend vacancy announcement wording that a) applies to a broad based educational background so that potential applicants do not feel they are “ruled out”, and b) that indicates a commitment to diversity that goes beyond standard Civil Rights Act statements.
3.  Review and recommend language that incorporates expectations regarding professional development in working with diverse audiences and diversity issues into position descriptions and performance appraisal documents and procedures.
4.  Work with Washington State University to determine whether the Cultural Competency Training currently offered by WSU can be developed into an on-line course. Recommend a course of action to WEDA.
5.  Review and recommend training in leading diversity efforts for mid and higher level Extension administrators who make final hiring decisions in the West.
6.  Develop a good working relationship with Change Agents States (CAS).
7.  Recommend an efficient, comprehensive system to “grow your own” diverse faculty and staff. This should include WEDA developing stronger relationships with 1890, 1994, and Hispanic serving institutions outside of the West.
WEDA would like to receive a report of your progress at our Fall 2009 meeting and our Spring 2010 meeting. Thank you very much for your willingness to help WEDA implement the excellent recommendations developed by the Diversity Committee.
cc: Lyla Houglum