Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

• OC Libraries celebrated Black History Month with a Story Time with a reading and discussion of Light, by Lesley Nneka Arimah by VP Cheryl Nuñez - Feb, 10, 2021
• Presidential Equity and Excellence Lecture featuring Dr. Stephanie J. Shaw - Feb. 9, 2021

As a community college, Olympic College plays a vital role in the economic, social, and civic life of the communities we serve. By expanding access to postsecondary education and training and strengthening support for student success and completion, we foster the capacity-building that is so fundamental to communal well-being and to democracy itself. In order to fully achieve those purposes, we must redouble our commitment to eliminating barriers based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, disability, sexual identity, class, religion and other group-based distinctions that make access and opportunity a hollow promise.

To fulfill our vision as a cornerstone of learning, we must also draw more fully upon the diversity of cultures, identities, experiences, and talents that exists within and beyond our community as catalysts for the rich and robust exchange of ideas that is the hallmark of educational excellence. All learners benefit from well-designed opportunities in and outside of the classroom to engage perspectives different from their own and to better understand the sociohistorical realities that have shaped their lives and world in which they live.

In an increasingly polarized world, we must ensure that our learning and working environments are safe, welcoming, and conducive to the success of our diverse community. In addition to enhancing our prevention and response to illegal discrimination and harassment, we must address bias, bullying and incivility that undermines student and employee engagement and productivity. We have a shared responsibility to maintain a climate characterized by inclusion and respect, in which all members of the campus community feel valued and empowered to contribute the best of themselves.

We are the beneficiaries of the courageous work of many colleagues, past and present, who have helped to sow the seeds of diversity, equity and inclusion at Olympic College. By strengthening the alignment of our people, policies and processes, and by leveraging our shared values, we will advance and reap the benefits of their efforts and ensure the viability of the College long into the future.

Sincerely, 

Marty Cavalluzzi, Ph.D
President, Olympic College