UMKC students, faculty and staff are invited to meet with representatives of the UM System Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force at a pair of Learning Sessions on March 23.

The sessions are scheduled for 10 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in Room 401 of the Student Union.

The Board of Curators created the Task Force for the purpose of “conducting a thorough, wide-ranging and unflinching study of the programs, policies, and practices that have been institutionalized at the system.”

The Task Force has been charged with developing both a short- and long-term strategy, plan and metrics for diversity, inclusion and equity for the UM System, based on an inventory and audit of current programs, policies and practices.

The Learning Sessions are the first step in Phase 1 of the process. Dr. David Mitchell, Chair of the Task Force, will discuss the role and structure of the system and the work of the Task Force. He will invite participants to join Phase II of the Task Force.

Phase II goals are to:

• Expand membership
• Develop a clear and compelling vision of our university’s future
• Develop short- and long-term recommendations to propel the university toward that future