Michael J. Tate, who became interim vice president for equity and diversity for Washington State University in September 2004, has agreed to remain in the position on a permanent basis.
“Our regents, our internal administration and many other groups have been deeply impressed with the vigor, energy and expertise in community building that Dr. Tate has applied to this position and with the early results,” President V. Lane Rawlins said.
“We are clearly developing momentum and commitment under Dr. Tate’s leadership, but there is much work to be done before the area is fully organized. Therefore, I am asking Dr. Tate to remain in this position while we establish our goals and build the programs.”
During his tenure, Tate has brought together various units to create the Office of Equity and Diversity. Tate’s office is working to develop a WSU systemwide strategic plan for equity and diversity and is establishing working relations with leadership in academic colleges and regional campuses to increase collaboration around diversity issues.
The office is working with the larger university to support efforts on recruitment of underrepresented students. The office also has created a website, http://diversity.wsu.edu, as a primary resource for those interested in equity and diversity news and activities.
“Through our work developing a system-wide strategic plan for equity and diversity, we are laying the groundwork for making true institutional improvements. This kind of work takes considerable persistence, expertise and, to a large degree, patience,” Tate said. “There is a lot of work remaining in the area of equity and diversity, but I believe Washington State University is ready for the challenge. We are seriously addressing these important issues and concerns.”
“I am so pleased to have this opportunity to provide leadership in this area for a university and community that I care so much about,” Tate said.
