Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Mission Statement

The Virginia Tech Department of Geography recognizes the effects of historical and present injustices that continue to challenge equal access to opportunities and resources within the university community. We are committed to cultivating the sense of belonging of individuals and groups that hold diverse experiences, identities, and ideas, and we are committed to supporting the ongoing changes necessary to fully incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into the department’s structures and values. In performing this mission, the Department of Geography embraces the Principles of Community, which include the inherent dignity and value of every person, the right of each person to express thoughts and opinions freely, and respect for our differences while affirming our common humanity. Our department believes that embracing diversity allows society to benefit from unique talents and perspectives that facilitate greater creativity and success for all.

Statement from Tom Crawford, department chair

As the geography department chair, I speak on behalf of the entire department in stating our commitment to work hard to enhance a sense of belonging to all students, faculty, staff and guests. We value diverse perspectives. An important theme of geography is the idea of sense of place. We will strive to continually create a welcoming sense of place. We invite all to discover your place in geography and to contribute to our departmental sense of place.  

Geography DEI Committee Members for 2023-24

• Korine Kolivras (chair)
• Eranga Galappaththi
• Luke Juran
• Stephanie Zick
• Bright Samson (graduate representative)
• Brenna Demko (undergraduate representative)
• Xavier Burns (undergraduate representative)

Resources for Fieldwork and Field Trips

• Field safety resources for students and faculty - from Virginia Tech's Environmental Health and Safety office
• Field safety plan - to be completed prior to fieldwork or field trips
  Information about Research Ethics and Virginia Tech's Institutional Review Board (IRB)
• Site to initiate IRB review for a research project

Resources for Teaching

• Syllabus Tips and Statements website
• Creating a community of learners 
• Support for first-generation college students
• Assisting students and colleagues in distress
• Mental Health First Aid Training
• Undergraduate Research Summer Institute through the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program