Chancellor Commission on Women Seeks Campus Input Two Ways

The Chancellor's Commission on Women is seeking input on this academic year's priorities via a short survey and a new event, "Coffee and Conversation," on Oct. 12. All members of the campus community are invited to attend.

The survey will close Sept. 30 at midnight. It will provide an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to contribute to the commission's programming and to suggest women to be highlighted for their accomplishments and contributions to the university. 

The coffee will be held from 9-10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, in the E.J. Ball Courtroom in the School of Law.   

Previous activities, initiatives and events sponsored by the Commission on Women include the development of parental leave for employees, modified faculty work assignments for pregnancy and parenting, establishment of mentoring and support networks, an annual recognition program highlighting women’s advocates and outstanding women on campus.

It has also highlighted the accomplishments of women on campus via its social media channels, and networking and professional development events open to the campus featuring a variety of speakers covering topics ranging from salary negotiation and mentoring, to designing a career path and inclusion.

“The 'Coffee and Conversation' event was added this year to broaden the participation of the campus community into the activities of the commission, which has a set membership number and structure,” said outgoing commission Chair Alishia Ferguson. “We want to engage as many people on campus in the work of the commission, and we hope this additional event will provide a venue for even greater participation. The survey is also a key data point that helps guide our efforts and make recommendations to the chancellor and provost.”  

The event will be a facilitated discussion led by Shirin Saeidi, the director of the Middle East Studies Program; Dana McGee, the president of the Graduate Professional Student Congress; and undergraduate student Quinette Rogers. The results of the survey will also be shared with the audience.

About the Chancellor's Commission on Women: Founded in 2010, the Chancellor's Commission on Women is an advisory group charged with reviewing and recommending policies, programs and issues to ensure that all women at the university are given the best possible opportunities for success within the institution and in their professional and college careers. Membership comprises both graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, and staff who serve on staggered three-year appointments to ensure fresh and diverse points of view. The group collectively decides on issues to address each year, and relies on input from colleagues, students, and occasional surveys to gain a sense of the campus' interests and needs.