Dear Staff Assembly and Community,
We understand that many of you are experiencing concern, frustration, and uncertainty regarding recent executive orders and their potential impact on our university, community, and professional lives. Moments of change can be challenging, and we acknowledge the wide range of emotions this brings. Please know that we hear you, we support you, and we stand together as a community.
The Staff Assembly and DEI Committee remain deeply committed to supporting our community, keeping you informed, and working collaboratively to find a path forward. To that end, we are actively engaging with university leadership and key partners, including HREC, General Counsel, the Academic Senate, and the Office of Culture, Ethics, and Compliance. Our goal is to gain clarity on these changes, assess their impact, and ensure that our response aligns with our shared mission and unifying values. Throughout these discussions, our priority is to maintain a supportive and welcoming environment while continuing the essential work of fostering inclusion, connection, and belonging.
Additionally, the Staff Assembly has emphasized the need for greater transparency and timely communication, advocating for more open dialogue and collaboration. We recognize that this is not just about providing information but about building trust, fostering respect, and ensuring that every member of our community feels valued and included in these conversations.
Our commitment to creating spaces for meaningful dialogue, learning, and connection remains unwavering. As part of this effort, we want to reassure you that the annual DEI Mixer will continue under a new name but with the same mission of celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity. It is tentatively scheduled for April 21, 2025, and we will share more details as soon as they are finalized.
Your voice is essential. We encourage you to share your thoughts and concerns through our Staff Assembly Feedback Survey, as your input is vital to shaping the steps we take as a community. Together, we will navigate this moment with care, resilience, and a shared commitment to equity and belonging.
Thank you for your engagement, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to this community.
With care and support,
USC Staff Assembly