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 VT 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, VT 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:
As the Department Chair of Geography at Virginia Tech, 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.
GEOG DEI committee members for 2023-24:
- Korine Kolivras (chair)
- Eranga Galappaththi
- Luke Juran
- Stephanie Zick
- Bright Samson (grad rep)
- Brenna Demko (undergrad rep)
- Xavier Burns (undergrad rep)
Resources for Fieldwork & Field Trips
- Field safety resources for students and faculty - Virginia Tech's Environmental Health & Safety office
- Field safety plan - to be completed prior to fieldwork or field trips
Resources for Teaching
- Syllabus Tips and Statements
- 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 Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program
Experiencing conflict? Resources for:
If you are experiencing conflict or are uncertain about how to handle a situation, the ombuds office provides an impartial perspective to help bring clarity to a path forward. All conversations in the ombuds office are kept confidential, unless permission is granted to speak to others.
Inclusion & Diversity in CNRE
Dr. Maryam Kamran, CNRE Director of Inclusion & Diversity