Dear Colleagues,

Happy Fall!  In this edition of the newsletter, we’ve curated a wide-ranging collection of events you can join. I am particularly excited about the three emerging discussion groups (or communities of practice) that we are launching!  To join one of these discussion groups, contact us with your interest.

The Art of Gathering

I have been digging into Prita Parker’s book, The Art of Gathering. This book has great lessons to teach us about how to gather with purpose. It’s got me thinking about all the meetings, classes, workshops, lecture series, potlucks, and other gatherings that are core to our work as a learning organization. This group will use Parker’s book to explore how we can create gatherings with sharp, bold purpose.  Participants will receive a copy of the book.

Affective Labor in the Classroom

Beckie Supiano’s article in the chronicle last spring, The Uneven Burden of Identity, describes the unevenness instructors carry for supporting students' well-being. Faculty that teach challenging or emotional material can find themselves putting in extra affective labor. A small study discussed in the article suggests that accommodation needs during the pandemic were disproportionately asked of Cisgender men and women of color, white cisgender women, and gender-nonconforming professors. This affinity group offers an opportunity for teaching faculty who manage affective labor in the classroom to share and support one another.  

Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Dexter Gordon recently announced that the Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Online Module will launch in November. This module is part of Evergreen’s response to a new statewide initiative to ensure students, staff, and faculty engage in professional development focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism (codified in Washington State Senate Bill 5227). Beginning in winter quarter, the Learning and Teaching commons will host gatherings to reflect on this material and how it impacts our work.  

STUDENT RESOURCES 

These individuals and offices are eager to support students. Keep this list handy when advising students or reach out to schedule a visit to your program or course.