Adapted from a Statement submitted to the Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University. Download checklist
Adapted by Dr. Vanessa Wynder Quainoo
Chief Intercultural Engagement Officer
Wheaton College, Wheaton Illinois
Recommended Statements on Course Syllabus
Place on front page or near the beginning of the syllabus and professors are also encouraged to personalize the statement and “make it your own” communication with your students.
Statement A
“Respect for Kingdom Diversity: It is my intent that students from all diverse backgrounds and perspectives be well served by this course, that students’ learning needs be addressed both in and out of class, and that the diversity that students bring to this class be viewed as a resource, strength, and benefit. It is my intent to present materials and activities that are respectful of diversity. This means I respect our differences in areas such as socioeconomic status, ethnicity, race, and culture. Your suggestions are encouraged and appreciated. Please let me know ways to improve the effectiveness of the course for you personally or for other students or student groups.”
My goal in this class is to provide a forum where students can learn in the liberal arts tradition with full embrace of our relationship to Jesus Christ, our Lord and because of His Grace, our relationships and fellowship with one another.
Statement B
This statement is for each one of you, my students. The purpose is to express my commitment to creating a welcoming and affirming environment in this classroom. I welcome multicultural expression and encourage us to learn about each other’s cultural heritage. Each student is an important part of our classroom community, and our cultural experiences are valuable to the learning process. If you experience any cultural, ethnic, or racial challenges, please feel free to speak with me before or after class.
InterVarsity Ministries is a helpful resource. The following is just one example of the ongoing work at InterVarsity.