Promoting diversity is outlined explicitly in the College of Agriculture's Strategic Plan. Goal 4 of the Strategic Plan, Promote Diversity and Inclusion, details the College's plan of action related to diversity. The College is committed to creating an environment where diversity is valued and all individuals can fulfill their highest potential. Respect for diversity of thought, culture, and all human differences is the cornerstone of all our actions. To implement its mission, the College must model the ways in which diversity, fairness and equity in policies and practices are essential to learning, discovery, and engagement.

2011 Civil Rights Information and Review letter from the Dean

Greetings
Promoting diversity of ethnicity, gender, and culture remains a critical goal of the College of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky. While we have made significant strides in our diversity efforts, our mission is ongoing. Much remains to be done in several areas, as documented in our Diversity Task Force Report. To help sustain and enhance our currents efforts, we formed the College Diversity Advisory Committee. Under the leadership of the newly appointed Assistant Dean of Diversity, Lionel Williamson, this committee will be charged with developing an Action Plan for the College. I am confident this committee will develop a plan for our College that encompasses action, outreach, and accountability. Creating an environment that fosters diversity remains at the forefront of our goals. We are fortunate for the accomplishments we have made thus far, but we are excited about the goals we are striving for in the future.

M. Scott Smith, Dean, College of Agriculture

Greetings
The College of Agriculture remains committed to improving the lives of all citizens in the Commonwealth and beyond. Promoting diversity of thought, culture and ethnicity within our College is one of the cornerstones of this effort. Diversity is not only a necessary element of higher education, but it is an ideal that has much value in our global society today. Our efforts in the College follow the fundamental belief that all individuals deserve to be respected, appreciated and allowed the support and resources to achieve their goals. These initiatives are continuous in nature in that our efforts in the College will be ongoing. Since our efforts are comprehensive, we require the inclusion of all units in the College of Agriculture for us to accomplish our stated goals. I am honored that Dean Scott Smith has entrusted me with guiding diversity efforts within the College of Agriculture. Modified 11/7/2010.

Dr. Lionel Williamson, Assistant Dean for Diversity, College of Agriculture