As part of its new strategic plan, UNC Charlotte has established a commitment to leading in equity and engagement. One of the many ways the University is accomplishing this goal for the Charlotte region is through the creation of a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion certificate offered by the School of Professional Studies.
Using a thought-provoking approach, the DEI certificate will help participants gain insights into their own perceptions and understand their role in helping foster a more diverse, inclusive and equitable culture in their organizations and their communities. The new program provides valuable knowledge, skills and how-to ideas, directly applicable to organizational and community needs.
“UNC Charlotte is excited to help our region’s working professionals build inclusive workplaces to unlock better team collaboration and improved innovation,” said Brandon Wolfe, associate vice chancellor for diversity and inclusion and chief diversity officer. “Businesses need diversity to thrive, and employees want to work for organizations that prioritize it. Research shows that companies with diverse and inclusive workforces are more innovative and up to 35% more likely to outperform their competitors."
Participants must complete four courses to earn the certificate: “DEI Leadership,” “Overcoming Bias to Create an Inclusive Workplace,” “Inclusive Recruitment, Engagement and Retention” and “Creating a Respectful and Inclusive Workplace: Addressing Behaviors that Can Hurt.”
All courses are offered in a live, online format and are taught by instructors with real-world DEI experience. Participants can choose from day and evening courses and classes can be taken in any order.
“The most effective diversity and inclusion professionals are able to identify and articulate how these initiatives align with their success as an organization,” said Samantha Abt-Bumgarner, program director for the DEI certificate. “The DEI certificate is not only for human resource and DEI professionals. Anyone interested in creating an inclusive and equitable culture in the workplace and community is encouraged to participate in the program.”
About the School of Professional Studies
UNC Charlotte’s School of Professional Studies, housed at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City, connects professionals to more than 90 degrees and graduate certificates with more than 50 available online and 40 available in the evenings and weekends so busy adults can continue their education while working. The school also offers more than 30 professional development certificates and certifications plus many more short-form learning opportunities to help professionals advance their careers.