The following message was recently sent from Dean Gillaspy to all CALS staff :

Last month, the University of Wisconsin System President Jay Rothman directed the elimination of mandatory diversity statements from applicants in written employment applications for all positions on all UW campuses. This does not change our college’s commitment to foster and embrace a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce, which is a part of our college’s stated values. However, it does change some of our procedures during the application and employment process.  

CALS HR has prepared guidance for our departments so that we can adhere to UW System’s mandate in the least disruptive way. Chairs and administrators received guidance today, and they will be sharing details with search committees, hiring managers, and other interested parties. I want to share two major points contained in the guidance document. First, CALS may continue to use specific competencies and criteria that support and provide evidence of a candidate’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Position descriptions may continue to include preferred DEI qualifications that the committee and hiring manager evaluate by asking DEI related questions during the interview process. And second, all ads for CALS jobs will continue to contain this statement that reflects our values: 

The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the University of Wisconsin–Madison are committed to foster and embrace a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from potential candidates of all races, class, gender, sexuality, ability, nationality, religion, and other group identities; and we encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  

As always, Associate Dean Macias and his group are available for consultation on any DEI matters and your CALS HR manager is available to assist with recruitments.