Bristol, Rhode Island
Chief Diversity Officer
Leadership Profile
CONFIDENTIAL
Prepared by
Oliver B. Tomlin, III
Khalilah J. Lawson
October 2016
This Leadership Profile is intended to provide information about Roger Williams University and the position of
Chief Diversity Officer. It is designed to assist qualified individuals in assessing their interest.
Opportunity and Summary of Position
Roger Williams University (RWU) seeks nominations and applications for the inaugural position
of Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) to lead and promote an institutional culture and welcoming
environment that supports diversity in all aspects of university life. The (CDO) reports directly to
the President of the University and is a member of the President's Cabinet. The CDO
collaborates and partners with senior management of the University and the faculty, and will be
the chair of the President's Council on Inclusive Excellence. A principal responsibility will be to
play a leadership role in developing, implementing and monitoring a comprehensive strategic
plan that advances a common campus vision with respect to diversity and inclusion.
The University is ready for a CDO and the office of diversity and inclusion. RWU will rely on the
expertise of the CDO to build the office that would address issues of diversity and inclusion for
students, faculty, staff, administration, community and additional key stakeholders. The CDO
will be a trusted advisor to the President and have the latitude to encourage courageous
conversations. Understanding this work is never easy and is fraught with challenges; the
importance of this work outweighs all obstacles. RWU is ready to become a national model of
inclusive excellence at a liberal arts college.
The campus was established in Providence, with roots dating back to 1919. In February 1956,
the Institute received a state charter to become a two-year, degree-granting institution under
the name of Roger Williams Junior College. During the 1960s, the school, then called Roger
Williams College, began granting bachelor’s degrees and quickly outgrew the YMCA building.
The College purchased 80 acres of waterfront land in Bristol and, in 1969, completed the initial
construction of its new campus. In 1992, Roger Williams College became Roger Williams
University, and the University celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2006. RWU now has campuses
in Bristol and in Providence, Rhode Island.
The CDO will serve as the senior administrator charged with creating and developing strategies
to assist and strengthen the RWU community to enhance the overall University as an inclusive
and welcoming space. Diversity and Inclusion work will continue to be championed at all levels,
not being centralized by this function, but being coordinated by this function. The CDO will be
expected to be a leader that has demonstrated experience not only building and creating
strategies, but implementing those strategies enterprise wide.
Candidates will be steeped in the best and most current trends, approaches and strategies in
diversity and inclusion and bring that knowledge to inform program and policy development
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work. The ideal candidate will be a demonstrated relationship builder and cultivator of those
relationships across a wide group of constituents, possess demonstrated excellent verbal and
written communication skills, ability to initiate and lead large-scale programs and projects,
ability to review and distill data to draw sound conclusion and demonstrate a fundamental
understanding of the culture of shared governance, tenure and promotion, decentralized
campus politics and the unique needs of students, faculty, staff and administration with respect
to diversity. Additional information about Roger Williams University may be found at
www.rwu.edu.
Confidential review of applications, nominations and expressions of interest will begin
immediately and will continue until an appointment is made. Information about how to
nominate a candidate or to apply for this opportunity can be found in the section titled
“Procedure for Candidacy” at the end of this document.
The Role of the Chief Diversity Officer
The inaugural Chief Diversity Officer, will be authorized to motivate and guide the University in
cultivating a climate of diversity. The CDO will execute through key collaborative partnerships
both on the two campuses as well as the community. First, by accurately assessing current
efforts to achieve greater diversity and inclusion; second by conceptualizing how to improve on
current efforts; and third by shaping policies and procedures designed to achieve necessary and
appropriate improvements. S/He will be responsible for continually monitoring and evaluating
programmatic and operational effectiveness, development and implementing management
metrics to assess achievements by means of an Institutional Scorecard on diversity that
contains customized benchmarks and metrics by Division and Sub-Division, working to achieve
financial support from outside entities and recommending policy or organizational strategy and
change when necessary and appropriate.
Additional responsibilities include:

Leading the Council on Inclusive Excellence;

Keep abreast of best practices and current trends in diversity and inclusion and bring
that knowledge to inform program and policy development work;
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
Prepare periodic and special reports for presentation to senior leadership and the Board
of Trustees as appropriate;

Develop and implement basic and advanced training programs for faculty, students and
staff to build greater awareness of the role diversity plays in the University;

Participate as appropriate in the process of recruitment and retention of students, hiring,
retention and training of faculty and staff; development and review of curriculum and
academic programs;

Review publications and media presentations to ensure appropriateness with diversity
and inclusion goals;

Evaluate physical infrastructure and facilities and examine policies and procedures in
contracting and purchasing for compliance with applicable regulations, policies and
procedures;

Review outreach relationships with community partners that support the University's
diversity and inclusion initiatives;

Represent the University at various community, professional meetings and conferences
as requested;

Use seasoned professional judgment in managing confidentiality on a "need-to-know"
basis within the Office of the President on all matters involving the University, the School
of Law and its students or employees, and must use exceptional professional judgment
in disseminating information as part of the specific enumerated responsibilities of the
job;

Contribute to the mission of the division through means that are within his/her capacity
and will foster University needs as determined by the President; and

Respect and maintain confidentiality, parameters of operation, professional protocols,
and individual privacy.
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Personal Qualifications and Personal Qualities
RWU seeks candidates that exhibit a high degree of initiative for bringing tasks to successful
completion and succeeding in achieved stated goals. The leader will maximize the use of the
available resources in order to consistently deliver successful outcomes. S/He will demonstrates
a genuine commitment and concern for achieving or surpassing results against legitimate and
increasingly elevated standards of excellence, showing passion for continually improving the
delivery of services. S/He must be self-motivated to out-perform standard expectations. The
CDO will undoubtedly be a relationship builder with demonstrated ability to initiate, foster and
maintain mission productive, favorable associations while developing networks with both
internal and external constituents as appropriate. Additional qualities include:

Client/Customer Focus: Initiates and develops positive working relationships with
internal agents of the University and external clients that are built on trust and integrity.
Ability to assess employee "needs" and "wants" to deliver positive and professional
outcomes. Encourages feedback and communication to ensure continuous quality
improvement.

Commitment to Mission and Objective: Demonstrates loyalty to University and
Department goals. Embodies and articulates the core values of the organization,
respecting the University's pursuits, from local to global.

Continuous Improvement: Analyzes and adjusts goals, objectives and/or courses of
action to meet needs in a changing environment. Recognizes when a situation calls for
or could benefit from a different approach. Queries the utility of conventional
methodologies.

Honesty & Integrity: The resolute commitment to and demonstrable respect for the
spirit and intent of the rules and core values of the organization, setting an example of
true professionalism and ethical propriety.

Initiative: Proactively identifies problems, obstacles and opportunities. Implements
decisive action appropriate to the position; assesses needs and concerns of the
workplace environment in order to address current or future challenges. Acts prudently
within the bounds of and to the extent of position authority.
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
Professionalism: Conducts oneself at all times in a conscientious, committed and
ambassadorial manner demonstrating respect for the position, colleagues and the
University's best interest.

Functional Competencies Adaptability: Exhibits versatility and flexibility in order to
meet and/or exceed the expectations of evolving priorities and needs. Evaluates
situations with an open mind and has the ability to efficaciously adjust to changes in
environment.

Range: Demonstrable excellence encompassing a significant expanse of knowledge,
skills and abilities. Successfully performs a broad array of requirements within all levels
of the responsibilities of the position.

Teaming Orientation and Aptitude: Works effectively with others, sharing relevant
knowledge and information as needed. Ability to join and sever, with acumen, group
relationships as appropriate to resolution. Subjugates one's own position in order to
reach positive, mutually advantageous consensus of the greater group's decisions while
demonstrating behavior that respects the contribution of others.

Conflict Resolution: Identifies competing interests, disagreements and contradictory
positions directly, accurately and dispassionately, resolving them collaboratively, while
seeking to build consensus and invoke the best interests of the University.

Consensus Development: Ability to forge effective agreement from a broad, diverse
and sometimes adverse constituency, influencing productive outcomes.

Communication Acumen: Expresses oneself clearly, purposefully and effectively in
both one-on-one and group settings, and both written and verbal context. Effectively
and seemingly effortlessly adjusts style to the specific audience in a non-discriminatory
way using accepted University protocols.

Leadership: Inspires, motivates and provides example to others in pursuit of
excellence. Steadfast in pursuit of achievement and passionate in commitment to
responsibilities and unequivocal purpose.

Influence Strategy Acumen: Ability to affect the beliefs prejudices and "buy in" of
colleagues and target constituencies in order to gain consensus or demonstrable support
for the plan or program.

Developing Others: Ability to recognize the talents and elicit investment of employees
toward greater performance capacity. Recognizes aptitude and opportunity matches
promoting the continued professional development of employees.
The ideal candidate will have the following professional qualifications and personal
characteristics:

Master's degree from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization;
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
Five years of successful work experience in dealing with diversity and inclusion
programs, with a working knowledge of applicable laws, rules and regulations
concerning such programs;

Demonstrated and proven ability to initiate and lead large-scale programs and projects.
Ability to gather and analyze data and to draw sound conclusions from the data;

Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to clearly communicate
concepts, ideas and information and influence a variety of audiences including students,
parents, faculty, senior management, staff and community representatives;

Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment;

Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality;

Must demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the culture of shared governance,
tenure and promotion, decentralized campus politics and the unique needs of students,
faculty, staff and administration with respect to diversity; and

Demonstrated advanced computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office
Suite.
Preferred Qualifications

Doctorate from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization;

Five years of successful experience specifically in the area diversity and inclusion at an
independent co- educational higher education institution;

Comprehensive knowledge of laws, rules and regulations and best practices, including
those concerning race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, veteran status, personal
appearance, and social, economic, spiritual and cultural distinctions and concerns; and

Possess an existing network of professionals engaged in the field of diversity and
inclusion in higher education.
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Roger Williams University: An Overview
History and Traditions
The principles and philosophies carried throughout the University date back to our namesake,
Roger Williams. Founder of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Roger
Williams was the first major figure in colonial America to forcefully argue the need for
democracy, religious freedom and understanding of America's native cultures.
The University’s roots date to 1919, when Northeastern University opened a branch campus at
the Broad Street Providence YMCA. In 1940, the YMCA Board of Directors took over the school,
and after closing it briefly during World War II, the YMCA Institute granted its first associate’s
degrees in 1948.
In February 1956, the Institute received a state charter to become a two-year, degree-granting
institution under the name of Roger Williams Junior College. During the 1960s, the school, then
called Roger Williams College, began granting bachelor’s degrees and quickly outgrew the YMCA
building. The College purchased 80 acres of waterfront land in Bristol and, in 1969, completed
the initial construction of its new campus. In 1992, Roger Williams College became Roger
Williams University and the University celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2006.
The University has dedicated itself to the ideals advocated by Roger Williams himself:
education, freedom and tolerance. Through his scholarship in language, theology and law,
Williams’ life reflected the value of learning and teaching. The University honors his legacy by
modeling a community in which diverse people and diverse ideas are valued, intellectual
achievement is celebrated and civic responsibility is expected.
Building on its current strength and supported by its unique history, Roger Williams University is
poised to expand its tradition of achievement and excellence as we move forward into the 21st
century.
In the fall of 2014, Roger Williams University embarked upon the Vision Project – an ambitious,
campus-wide undertaking to articulate a roadmap for the future of the University. With more
than 20 committees comprising faculty, staff, students and trustees – along with input from an
array of voices from the community beyond our campus – a new Core Purpose, a set of Core
Values and a University Goal were authored collectively and adopted unanimously by the Board
of Trustees in the summer of 2015. This is Who We Are.
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Preamble
Roger Williams University is inextricably connected to Roger Williams, the 17th-century leader
devoted to freedom of conscience and social justice who founded a community in Rhode Island
based on those tenets. Roger Williams’ philosophy, and what has been called his “lively
experiment,” nurtured the growth of vibrant and open societies. Our pursuit of excellence in
education, academic accomplishment and community service is rooted in his focus on
intellectual exchange, critical thinking, inclusiveness and innovation as a means of improving a
free society. It is this legacy that inspires our core purpose.
Core Purpose
To strengthen society through engaged teaching and learning. We inspire and educate students
to lead fulfilled lives by ensuring they acquire and develop the knowledge, skills and habits of
mind necessary to become reflective, responsible individuals who interact with society in
mutually rewarding ways.
Core Values
A Roger Williams University education is:
Transformative. We are committed to an expansive student-centered experience, characterized
by academic rigor, critical thinking, collaboration and community engagement, which enriches
students, the University and the broader society.
Engaged. We collaborate with one another and with constituencies outside the University to
promote individual learning and to help address community needs.
Experiential. We provide an educational environment that bridges theory and practice,
enhancing the ability of students to fulfill their potential and to contribute to society.
Inclusive. We welcome and value all expressions of diversity and identity, actively promote
inclusion and prepare students to challenge societal norms and to thrive in a culturally diverse
and global society.
Innovative. We are nimble in developing and piloting changes for the continuous improvement
of learning, service and all other aspects of University life.
University Goal
To Build the University the World Needs Now

By working with communities to address problems that matter most to society;

By utilizing transformative educational experiences in preparing all students to fulfill their
potential as lifelong learners, professionals and citizens;

By meeting the higher education needs of dedicated and aspiring learners of all ages
and career stages;
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
By being affordable for every student who is admitted to the University;

By hiring faculty and staff, and recruiting students, who mirror the diversity of our
region; and

By promoting sustainability as a core principle on the campus and in the community.
Academic Units
Roger Williams University is committed to providing our students with the limitless options of a
liberal arts education as well as market-driven, relevant professional programs. More than 40
majors, 13 graduate degrees and numerous minors and certificate programs are housed within
five professional schools, the Feinstein College of Arts & Sciences, the School of Graduate
Studies and the School of Continuing Studies. In addition, Roger Williams is home to the state's
only law school, which attracts students from across the country to campus to earn a juris
doctor degree. The matrix below allows you to easily review and access information on the
many academic opportunities available to students at RWU.
Mario J. Gabelli School of Business
The Mario J. Gabelli School of Business (GSB) strives to develop independent thinkers, educated
in theory and practice, with an appreciation of global perspectives that can communicate
effectively, work in teams and solve problems in an ethical manner. Our students learn through
a variety of methods including case analysis, team projects and hands-on learning
opportunities. A variety of business majors are offered by the GSB and the majority are
accredited by the AACSB International, which represents the highest standard of achievement
for business schools worldwide. Classes in the GSB facilitate student learning through close and
continuing interaction with faculty. The faculty conducts classes using a variety of pedagogical
approaches: lecture, the Socratic (dialectical) method, case analysis and discussion, team
projects, executive lectures and student presentations. Faculty also provide academic and
career advising.
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Feinstein College of Arts & Sciences
Feinstein College of Arts and Sciences (FCAS) is the heart of Roger Williams University. FCAS
carries on in the great tradition of liberal arts colleges, providing a unifying center of
transdisciplinary education to all RWU students. Teaching and learning in FCAS are
characterized by exploration, diversity, inquiry, interaction, tolerance, confidence, competence,
community and service. The depth and breadth of programs in FCAS make it the most highly
attended school at the University, and home to 22 of our 43 majors.
School of Architecture, Art and Historic Preservation
A diverse educational community, the School of Architecture, Art and Historic Preservation
(SAAHP) prepares students for leadership in professional practice, service and individual
creative pursuits. We are committed to balance between creation and conservation, aesthetic
and technical pursuits, national and international perspectives, individual exploration and
community involvement, classroom and lifelong learning. Students in SAAHP will work hard, but
will be rewarded -- both during their time on campus and in their future endeavors.
School of Engineering, Computing & Construction Management
The School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management (SECCM) delivers a
practical, hands-on approach to learning that enables graduates to adapt to rapid technological
change, communicate and interact effectively with diverse populations and unite education with
experience to form a uniquely individual vision.
School of Justice Studies
The School of Justice Studies (SJS) is dedicated to providing students with a top quality, wellrounded education that will prepare them to successfully meet the challenges facing modern
justice system professionals. Because the disciplines in SJS are applied sciences, the School has
a close relationship with members of the criminal justice community—making your education
even more relevant through professional experience.
School of Education
The School of Education (SEd) at Roger Williams University seeks to educate reflective leaders
whose practice is grounded in a commitment to social justice, civil discourse, global citizenship
and educational excellence for all students. Our programs are designed to provide students with
hands-on learning experiences in real classrooms around the region during their student
teaching coursework. The professional education that our students receive at RWU reflects
cutting-edge educational research and practice.
School of Continuing Studies
The School of Continuing Studies meets you where you are in your educational and career
journey. Our faculty and staff are experts in their fields and understand the demands that come
with pursuing your education and career goals, while meeting other responsibilities such as
commitments to work, family, community, or service. We will work with as you strive to
distinguish yourself within your field by offering hands on industry experience.
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School of Law
The only law school in Rhode Island, Roger Williams University School of Law offers students a
rigorous, hands-on, affordable legal education in a supportive environment. RWU Law is a
leader in providing experiential and pro bono education opportunities for its students, and has a
legacy of outstanding scholarship, accomplished alumni and profound engagement with the
bench and bar.
Accreditation
Roger Williams University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges
(NEASC), Commission on Institutions of Higher Education. RWU is preparing for reaccreditation
in 2016. NEASC strives to establish and maintain high standards for all levels of education, from
pre-K to the doctoral level. It serves some 1,866 public and independent schools, colleges and
universities in the six New England states and 114 American/International schools around the
globe.
Regional accreditation ensures that the academic programs of Roger Williams University meet
the same high standards for educational quality and rigor required of premier colleges and
universities nationwide. Oftentimes, employers want to verify the accreditation of a college or
university before they will pay for tuition or fees as part of a company-sponsored benefits
program.
In addition to the University's regional accreditation, specific RWU schools and programs are
accredited by other recognized accrediting bodies.
Comprehensive List of School-Specific Accreditation and Approval Agencies:
American Chemical Society (ACS)
The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE)
The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC)
The American Council for Construction Education (ACCE)
The Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)
The American Bar Association (ABA)
Massachusetts Board of Higher Education (Quinn Bill)
Association of American Law Schools (AALS)
Fast facts
RWU Enrollment as of Fall Census, October 1, 2015
Undergraduate
3,931
Undergraduate Continuing Studies
Graduate, Law & Professional
Average Class Size
Undergraduate Student/Faculty Ratio
624
623
19
14:1
*day students only
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Undergraduate Student Population
Male
Female
Freshman to Sophomore Retention Rate
Six-year graduation rate (based on 2009 cohort)*
*national average is 54%, based on 2008 cohort
48%
52%
81%
64%
Admission Deadlines
Early Action I
Early Action II
Regular Decision
November 1
December 1
February 1
Academic Opportunities
Number of majors offered
Percentage of students who double major
49
7%
RWU 2015-2016 Costs
Average Tuition
School of Architecture Tuition
Average Room & Board
Semester Fee
Health Insurance Fee*
$29,976
$33,792
$15,412
$912 per semester, $1,824 annually
$1,961
*All undergraduate day students (residential and commuter),
Master of Architecture students and international students on
an F-1 or J-1 visa, must be covered by an adequate health
insurance policy. Those who are covered under an existing
health insurance plan may waive the University sponsored
health insurance.
Affordability as of Fall Census, October 1, 2015
Percentage of new students receiving financial aid
Average new student financial aid package
Average new student institutional grant
Average student loan indebtedness*
*based on most recent Spring 2016 graduating class,
includes all federal and private loans
96%
$23,900
$13,370
$36,185
CSS Profile (Institutional Aid) form due dates
Early Action and Regular Decision
(School Code 3729)
January 1
FAFSA (Federal & State Aid) due date
(RWU School Code 003410)
Early Action and Regular Decision
February 1
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Student Life
Number of clubs and organizations
Recent On-Campus Entertainment: Lupe Fiasco,
Third Eye Blind, Busta Rhymes, Parachute, Gym Class
Heroes, Guster, Chiddy Bang, MKTO and
Sammy Adams
Percentage of students who live on campus
Number of Varsity Sports
(NCAA Division III, ICSA, IHSA)
70+
75%
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Partnerships and Initiatives
For a University that prides itself on its campus-wide commitment to community through service
and sustainability, sustaining a wide array of partnerships and initiatives that extend beyond the
borders of campus and into the greater community is paramount.
Whether it’s addressing areas of mutual interest with our partners in the Town of Bristol,
sharing academic expertise with local organizations through our Community Partnerships Center
or engaging through any number of other projects, our students and faculty are a significant
presence in the region.
In fact, thanks to our outstanding relationship with the Town of Bristol, a new partnership
called Bridge to Bristol Bargains was introduced last year. Through our community partnership,
we are able to offer our students, parents, alumni and friends discounted rates at many of
Bristol's top businesses.
Diversity and Inclusion
Roger Williams University has historically valued the importance of diverse perspectives in a
dynamic learning environment. While elements of diversity are embodied in our core values,
Inclusive Excellence has been formalized as an institutional priority with a strategy in place to
engage the entire community in promoting diversity awareness and to build a diversity program
that touches every aspect of campus life – from academics, student programming, hiring and
training to bias response, purchasing and community outreach.
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At Roger Williams University, they embrace all cultures and backgrounds and further a civil
discourse across global perspectives. The Intercultural Center lives that vision by providing a
student-centered space with the motto
“Welcoming people of all nationalities,
faiths and personal identities.” Distinct
from universities that organize their
offices around separate social
identities, the Intercultural Center
provides a common space that houses
staff with expertise in multicultural,
international and LGBT student affairs.
The Intercultural Center also houses
the Spiritual Life Office with the
University Multifaith Chaplain and
several affiliated chaplains. Together
this group offers interfaith activities to
help students receive spiritual support
and gain religious literacy.
Statement on Diversity and Inclusive Excellence
Diversity and Inclusive Excellence at Roger Williams University
The RWU statement on Diversity and Inclusive Excellence was prepared by the President’s
Council on Inclusive Excellence. In developing the statement language, the Council circulated
drafts to the University community, reviewed and incorporated written feedback, sponsored
participatory campus forums, and reviewed internal and external definitions of diversity
including but not limited to the following sources:
Existing definitions and statements from RWU faculty, staff and students including proposed
definition language from the Faculty Senate Diversity Committee.
The concepts draw heavily from the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AACU),
and include adaptations from the report Towards a Model of Inclusive Excellence and Change in
Postsecondary Institutions *
Statements of philosophy on diversity and inclusion from other higher education institutions and
professional organizations
Diversity
Roger Williams University stands firmly committed to creating a campus that is diverse and
inclusive as well as welcoming to and accepting of all people regardless of race, ethnicity,
gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ability, socio-economic class, age or
spirituality. A direct reflection of our University core values, diversity brings multiple
perspectives to our community; cultivates the exchange and the challenge of new ideas; and
honors varied traditions, cultures, points of view and perspectives.
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Inclusive Excellence
Inclusive Excellence, as defined by AACU, is the “active, intentional and ongoing engagement
with diversity” in ways that increase our personal and social “awareness, content knowledge,
cognitive sophistication and empathetic understanding” of one another.
At Roger Williams University, they recognize and emphasize our responsibility to prepare
students to live and work in an increasingly diverse and global society. Inclusive Excellence is
our institutional approach to support the advancement of cultural sensitivity and global
awareness across campus and to build a culture that inspires diversity in every aspect of the
University. Inclusive Excellence is central to the role as a teaching institution, providing
opportunities for greater learning, understanding and growth for all of our students within local
and global contexts. Inclusive Excellence values a workforce that is reflective of and capitalizes
on the intellectual potential of colleagues that will enrich the University. The goal is to instill
respect for each member of our community and to create, promote, and support an
environment in which all members of the University community are provided opportunities to
understand and respect diverse opinions and experiences.
*Adapted from the core principles of Inclusive Excellence as published by the Association of
American Colleges and Universities at website:
http://aacu.org/compass/inclusive_excellence.cfm (April 16, 2012)
The statement on Diversity and Inclusive Excellence are not intended to replace the established
Non-Discrimination policy of the University as published in the University Catalogue.
The President's Council on Inclusive Excellence is a committee comprised of faculty, staff and
student representatives that is convened regularly to help guide strategic decisions relating to
diversity issues at RWU. We understand that cultivating a climate of respect and appreciation
for the value of the differences that each of us brings to the RWU community is an ongoing
process, and Inclusive Excellence will be a continuously evolving effort that will be woven into
the fabric of our culture.
The Alliance, Asian Student Association
The Asian Student Association club is a place for Asians, non-Asians, and Internationals who are
interested in exploring the different cultural aspects of Asia.
Bias Education Response Team (BERT)
The Bias Education Response Team (BERT) affirms the University’s mission and is committed to
contributing to a community that fosters a healthy and safe environment for everyone. The
University has zero tolerance for acts of hate. The team is committed to preventing further acts
of hate by educating the RWU community about the effects of hateful actions and the impact
on all of us. Report bias incidents through our confidential online reporting form.
Diversity Leadership Program
Through mentorship, the Diversity Leadership Program is committed to building strong leaders
who not only acknowledges the values of diversity, multiculturalism and inclusion, but also
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recognizes the importance of developing intercultural competency through active engagement
with academics, multicultural programs and social justice initiatives. We strive to prepare
students to become global citizens who are well-equipped to face the challenges of oppressive
structures with local communities, on a national scale or internationally.
Diversity Living Learning Community
Students believing in the concepts of egalitarianism, pluralism, social justice and personal
empowerment to bring change will find that this Living-Learning Community gives them an
opportunity to examine their own experiences and those of others as they intersect with
gender, sexuality, race, class, nation and religion.
Global Fest
Global Fest is a campus-wide festival that
celebrates cultural diversity and
international connections through
performances, music, activities, displays,
international food and information booths.
Hawk Ally Program
The Hawk Ally Program is designed to
educate administrators, staff and faculty
about the experiences and concerns of
LGBTQ members of our community as well
as provide tools for creating supportive environments for LGBTQ students.
Hillel
Hillel is the religious, social, cultural and political group for Jewish students on campus.
Students gather regularly for Shabbat and celebrate holidays, share cultural experiences, talk
about Jewish and Israeli issues and offer programming on the Jewish experience.
Intercultural Center
The Intercultural Center provides student support and outreach, programming, and intercultural
learning in 5 areas: International, Multicultural, LGBTQ. Spiritual Life, and the Diversity
Leadership Program.
Intercultural Center in Maple
The Intercultural Center (IC) in Maple serves as a hub of operations. Containing a kitchen,
lounge, classroom, computer resources, prayer room and professional staff, the IC is utilized by
members of our community as a place to host informal socials, educational programs and
cultural events, as well as group meetings. The IC is accessible by all members of the University
community and is open 101 hours per week. We encourage all members of the RWU
community to take advantage of our resources and join us in raising the level of discourse
around issues of diversity, racism and societal pluralism.
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International Student Services
International Student Services (ISS) works in concert with Student Life, Enrollment
Management & Retention and academic departments on campus to support the successful
matriculation and graduation of international undergraduate and graduate students. From
immigration assistance to interpersonal help, ISS works to inform international students of their
responsibilities as well as introduce them to cultural opportunities both on and off-campus. In
addition, programs are designed to foster a higher level of interest and understanding of
various cultures and backgrounds on campus.
Intercultural Student Services
In an ever-changing society, university campuses have an opportunity to serve as global
learning laboratories. With this premise in mind, the IC reaches out to traditionally
underrepresented students to assist them in their transition to the RWU community as well as
encourage them to take advantage of available opportunities. Through programming with
themes of diversity and social justice, mentoring through the Diversity Leadership Program and
personal intervention, the IC works to create an environment that responds to the needs of
students while promoting academic and personal development. The IC also works to support
campus mechanisms that proactively seek to critically examine issues of personal identity,
diversity and inclusion.
Intercultural Leadership Ambassador (ILA) Committee
The ILA Advisory Committee is comprised of Faculty, Administrators and Staff (including recent
ILA grads) in place to support all aspects of ILA’s success as students and leaders.
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship (IVCF)
IVCF is an interdenominational student fellowship committed to advancing witnessing
communities who follow Jesus Christ as Lord. They do this through outreach to God's people of
every ethnicity and culture. Students gather for Bible studies, fellowship, guest speakers, social
events and retreats.
Latino Policy Institute
The Latino Policy Institute (LPI) is committed to generating and communicating non-partisan
data of Latinos in Rhode Island. The LPI will stimulate public policy discourse and enhance the
public's understanding of the Rhode Island Latino experience.
LGBTQ Faculty Sub-Committee
Dedicated to equality and inclusivity at RWU, by brainstorming solutions for positive change,
and encouraging and supporting programs to enrich LGBTQ life and identity.
Leadership Unity Day
Our RWU Unity Day welcomes new students to RWU and provides an introduction to support
systems on campus, to student groups that are engaged in diversity and social justice, and
provides a half-day exploration of issues that can create barriers in our society. Through fun,
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educational and interactive activities, we seek to break down those barriers that separate us in
order to build understanding and community and to cultivate a campus culture that is
increasingly inclusive.
The Locker Room
The Locker Room is a male-only gender interest group that meets to talk about what it means
to be a man, both at Roger Williams and in the world.
The Multi-Cultural Law Students Association (MCLSA)
The Multi-Cultural Law Students Association (MCLSA) engages in programs that are in the
interest of low income communities and communities of color. A few of our annual events
include an international potluck, a fundraiser for the Innocence Project and a high school
immersion day at the law school.
Multicultural Student Union (MSU)
The Multicultural Student Union is a progressive group of students that collaborate with others
to provide educational opportunities on matters of diversity. We seek to demonstrate how
people from diverse backgrounds, values and beliefs can work together to create a safe and
inclusive environment for the student body. Ultimately, fostering the growth of the Roger
Williams University community.
Muslim Students’ Association (MSA)
MSA creates a platform for Muslim students to promote mutual understanding between Muslims
and non-Muslims and to clarify the misconceptions associated with Islam. MSA meets for
regular discussions, informational sessions, social, and religious activities. A prayer room at the
Intercultural Center offers a space for daily prayers.
The National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI)
The National Coalition Building Institute is an international training organization. A Campus
Team of students and staff provide workshops on prejudice reduction and community building.
OutRWU
OutRWU is an affinity group for faculty and staff who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, queer or questioning. The group has formed to offer fellowship and support to the
LGBTQ faculty and staff of RWU. The group currently meets monthly for Brown Bag lunches.
Dates and times vary. Members communicate through a listserv.
RWU Catholic Campus Ministry
The ministry enriches the quality of life on campus for Catholic students through weekly Mass
on Sundays, community service-oriented programs, as well as spiritual, intellectual and social
activities.
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The Office of Diversity & Outreach at RWU Law
The Office of Diversity & Outreach at RWU Law provides support to diverse students in their
academic, social and professional development through workshops, one-on-one student
counseling and support of student organizations. It also oversees all of the law school’s diversity
initiatives and programs.
Sexuality Advocacy for Everyone (SAFE)
SAFE is the campus-wide, gay-straight alliance group at Roger Williams University. Annual
events include Pride Week during April and Transgender Day of Remembrance. SAFE is highly
involved with other diversity organizations on campus, and often advises and advocates for
issues of multiculturalism on campus.
The Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs
The Spiegel Center oversees all study abroad, exchange and international grant programs.
These programs allow our students to have an intercultural experience, creating a more diverse
campus.
The Spiritual Life Program
The Spiritual Life Program welcomes students, faculty, staff and alumni from all religious,
spiritual and ethical traditions, as well as those who are in exploration. The Rev. Nancy Hamlin
Soukup is the University Multifaith Chaplain. Her responsibilities are to provide pastoral care to
the RWU community—students, staff, faculty and alumni—and to coordinate the multifaith
initiatives sponsored by the Interfaith Council and the Intercultural Center.
Social Justice Week
Social Justice Week offers students the opportunity to experience activism by focusing
awareness on issues of inequality and oppression on a local and global scale.
Sustained Dialogue
The Sustained Dialogue group is student lead initiative that works towards creating a safe and
inclusive environment for all aspects of identity.
The Women's Center
The Women’s Center serves as a support and resource area for all students. Members of the
Women’s Center meet weekly to develop awareness programs and other educational
opportunities for the campus community. Exploring current issues facing women, this group
also serves as a support network. The Women’s Center creates, facilitates and sponsors
programming to educate and enrich the lives of all RWU students.
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Our Mission
The mission of the Intercultural Center is to develop world citizens capable of critical thinking,
compassion and respect for differences.
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President Donald J. Farish, Ph.D., J.D.
With more than 40 years experience in higher education
including 11 as a full-time faculty member, esteemed educator,
scientist and attorney Donald J. Farish, Ph.D., J.D., became the
10th president of Roger Williams University in June 2011.
A native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Dr. Farish immigrated
to the U.S. in 1963 to pursue his graduate education after
receiving his bachelor’s degree in zoology from the University of
British Columbia. He holds a master’s of science degree in
entomology from North Carolina State University, a Ph.D. in
biology from Harvard University and a juris doctor from the
University of Missouri. A respected scientist in his field, Dr.
Farish is the author of six biology textbooks and has authored
and co-authored numerous articles on entomology and animal
behavior.
A celebrated academic leader, Dr. Farish joined Roger Williams following a 13-year post as
president of Rowan University in Glassboro, N.J., where he transformed the respected regional
institution into a world-class university known for its innovative academic programs. At Rowan,
Dr. Farish was responsible for the physical expansion of the campus, including the construction
of new academic facilities for science, medicine, teacher education and technology research;
almost 2,000 additional student residence beds to accommodate rapidly expanding enrollment;
and a 26-acre downtown redevelopment project to connect the borough of Glassboro with the
University.
Throughout his career in higher education, Dr. Farish has demonstrated tremendous
commitment to teaching and learning, always considering himself a member of the faculty who
also provides administrative leadership. During his tenure at Rowan, Dr. Farish elevated the
institution from second tier to top tier, where it is ranked third among public master's level
universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report. He also created incentive programs to
enhance student-faculty interaction and established a plan to bring an additional 50 tenuretrack faculty members to the university.
Prior to assuming presidency of Rowan University in 1998, Dr. Farish held academic and
administrative positions at Sonoma State University, the University of Rhode Island and the
University of Missouri. His commitment to shared governance has earned him a reputation as a
collaborative and inspirational leader dedicated to preparing students for life in a just society,
and to turning challenges into opportunities. A sought-after voice in higher education, Dr. Farish
served as one of 20 sitting presidents and chancellors at a July 2010 Presidential Roundtable
organized in Washington, D.C., by the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education to
discuss the future of higher education in the U.S.
Since joining Roger Williams in 2011, Dr. Farish has guided the University community in
articulating an agreed-upon identity that defines the distinctive elements of an RWU education.
As a result of that conversation, he launched the Affordable Excellence initiative, which has
positioned Roger Williams at the leading edge of the national dialogue regarding cost, debt and
job-preparedness for today’s college graduates. One of the most visible elements of Affordable
Excellence is an expanding focus on meaningful experiential learning projects for students
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across the academic disciplines, many of which are facilitated through the Community
Partnerships Center, created shortly after Dr. Farish joined the University.
Via his President’s Blog and other community outreach efforts on both the local and national
level, Dr. Farish has established himself as a voice for the change he believes is needed to
make higher education more relevant, more affordable and more accessible. In 2013, he was
selected to lead the Executive Board of Rhode Island Campus Compact, a coalition of college
and university representatives dedicated to supporting and expanding campus-based
community service initiatives at schools across the state. He serves on the governing boards for
the New England Council and the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, among other
organizations.
Dr. Farish and his wife, Maia, live at the University Residence on Ferry Road in Bristol, R.I.
Ardent supporters of arts, cultural, educational and social service organizations across Rhode
Island; they are patrons of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and are committed to
showcasing the performing and visual arts on campus.
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Bristol, Rhode Island
Bristol, Rhode Island, is a quaint, historic New England town known for its annual Fourth of July
celebration, RWU's campus sits on a sprawling 143 acres overlooking Mount Hope Bay. RWU is
just minutes to downtown Bristol -- home to restaurants, ice cream shops, boutiques and
antique shops, the East Bay Bike Path and Colt State Park. RWU is also just a 30-minute drive
to both Newport (R.I.'s beach haven) and Providence (R.I.'s capital city), just 60 minutes to
Boston, Mass., and about three hours to New York City.
The campus is home to the Feinstein College of Arts and Sciences as well as five professional
schools. Students live in a variety of housing options from singles and doubles to suites and
apartments in six on-campus residence halls and two off-campus halls. From state-of-the-art
classrooms and computer labs to our newest classroom building, Global Heritage Hall at the
heart of RWU's academic quad, RWU's campus is the epitome of what a college campus should
be.
Additional information on the town of Bristol may be found at: http://www.bristolri.us/
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Procedure for Candidacy
Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. Review of applications will begin
immediately and will continue until the position is filled. For fullest consideration, applicant
materials should be received by January 31, 2017. Candidates should provide a curriculum
vitae, a letter of application that addresses the responsibilities and requirements described in
the Leadership Statement, and the names and contact information of five references.
References will not be contacted without prior knowledge and approval of candidates. These
materials should be sent electronically via e-mail to Roger Williams University’s consultants
Oliver B. Tomlin, III and Khalilah J. Lawson at [email protected].
Materials that must be mailed may be sent to:
Chief Diversity Officer
Roger Williams University
C/O WITT/KIEFFER
Attention: Oliver B. Tomlin, III and Khalilah J. Lawson
7201 Wisconsin Avenue
Suite 775
Bethesda, MD 20814
The Roger Williams University values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity for all
persons regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race,
religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other status protected by law.
The material presented in this leadership profile should be relied on for informational purposes
only. This material has been copied, compiled, or quoted in part from Roger Williams University
documents and personal interviews and is believed to be reliable. While every effort has been
made to ensure the accuracy of this information, the original source documents and factual
situations govern.
All images and logos used in this leadership profile were attained from Roger Williams
University and/or are owned by Witt/Kieffer via Getty Images.
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