About AU Connects
Why was this initiative started?
The current national climate and recent racist events have highlighted the need for the university community to engage in conversations about identity, race, ethnicity, and inclusion.
Many faculty, staff, and students have expressed the desire to talk about these issues, but feel uncertain about where to begin. This initiative provides the opportunity to request a facilitator to help navigate these conversations.
AU Connects Goals:
- Decrease fear of difference, especially around race/ethnicity
- Increase understanding of ourselves and others to build empathy
- Build a more inclusive campus climate
Who can request Facilitators?
- Faculty
- Grad students
- Undergrad students
- Staff members
- Student leaders
- Resident Assistants
Who are the Facilitators?
- AU staff with relevant previous experience
- AU graduate students in programs related to identity, diversity, and/or facilitation
- All Facilitators participated in a tailored two-day training on facilitation in the context of race/ethnicity
Where is AU Connects situated within the University?
AU Connects is a campus-wide initiative led by AU staff Rebecca Coughlin (SIS), with support from Inclusive Excellence, Amanda Taylor (OCL) and graduate assistant Giselle Kuri (SIS).
Rebecca Coughlin
Associate Director, Graduate Enrollment Management
Director, Diversity & Inclusion Initiatives
School of International Service
Giselle Kuri
Program Assistant
AU Connects
Graduate Student
International Peace and Conflict Resolution Program, SIS