Nineteenth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

This highly interactive workshop will discuss two programs in the U.S. that focus on increasing diversity in graduate education on two levels—nationally and locally. Nationally, the Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Program promotes inclusion and full participation of underrepresented groups in public service and advances their leadership roles throughout civic institutions serving domestic and international affairs. Through PPIA’s Junior Summer Institutes, students engage in rigorous preparation for graduate school in public policy and international affairs hosted by top graduate school programs nationally. The PPIA Graduate School Consortium, comprised of 40 to 50 institutions and professional associations, ensures that future public service leaders reflect our increasingly diverse population to address the societal challenges of our time. Locally, the Community of Scholars Program (COSP) at the University of Minnesota, was recognized by the National Association of Graduate Admissions Professionals for innovative practices in supporting graduate students of color, across disciplines, by building strong networks that promote timely degree completion. COSP initiatives include high-impact mentoring programs utilizing the Individual Development Plan (IDP)—a structured communication tool for student mentees to pursue academic and professional goals with guidance from faculty and staff who serve as mentors. Through small and large group discussions, workshop participants will (1) discuss successes and challenges with current diversity initiatives at their academic institutions, (2) create their own IDP to identify goals to diversify their institutions, and (3) explore strategies to implement goals using a list of effective resources provided by workshop facilitators.