Making campus safety a priority

The college has convened a working group to identify ways to improve the campus climate for students, faculty and staff.

Seattle Central has launched an effort to improve the campus climate in the wake of a divisive election season and a series of alarming incidents. A working group has been created – composed of faculty and staff from a variety of college departments – to develop resources and strategies that will promote a safer and more respectful environment for everyone on campus. The group is also working to make the process to report hateful acts and bias-related incidents more accessible.

There are certain segments of the community – such as undocumented immigrants and Muslims – who
are fearful and feel threatened because of proposed changes to laws and policies. We want to do
everything we can to support these students and everyone who chooses to study with us, said
President Sheila Edwards Lange, Ph.D.
Some efforts planned for Winter Quarter include:

  • A sign campaign in offices and public spaces that will express support for all students, including those from all nations and religions, regardless of immigration status, gender identity or sexual orientation.
  • A dedicated section of the website that will list resources for students, faculty, and staff; information on relevant upcoming campus events; and directions for reporting incidents of bias, harassment or hate.
  • Professional development for faculty and staff around Stop the Hate, offered in conjunction with Multicultural Services and the Library.
  • A campus-wide conversation on climate facilitated by Associated Student Council and Student Services.

Additionally, President Edwards Lange has signed a national letter supporting the Deferred Action for
Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and undocumented immigrant students.

The Campus Resource Group, as it is officially known, will work throughout the academic year to continually develop new strategies and respond to existing concerns.