Purpose

The purpose of the Inclusion and Diversity Committee (IDC) is to (a) identify the inclusion and diversity strengths, issues, and opportunities within all aspects of NCFR; (b) develop strategies and plans to examine ways in which we include and exclude (however unintentionally) NCFR members; (c) systematically examine aspects of NCFR to enhance its effectiveness and ability to meet the needs of its diverse membership; and (d) respectfully celebrate and document the successes of inclusivity approaches. The IDC serves the NCFR Board of Directors by engaging our shared experiences, and promoting a community of respect that honors the humanity of all.

The Inclusion and Diversity Committee serves as an oversight group that represents all members within the organization. It is IDC’s job to: (a) make recommendations regarding inclusive and diverse approaches, (b) examine programs, activities, policies, publications, and practices to determine intentional or unintentional exclusiveness, and (c) engage members in scholarly dialogues, as well as evidence-based instruction and practices that reflect inclusion and diversity. IDC also serves as the central avenue for communication between the governing structure of the organization and its constituents regarding issues of inclusion and diversity.

Membership, Officers, and Terms of Office

The Inclusion and Diversity Committee shall consist of seven members elected by the NCFR membership and two non-voting members. The non-voting members will be a member of the Board of Directors and a Staff Liaison. The members of the IDC shall serve staggered one, two, and three-year terms.

The Elections Council shall nominate the candidates for the open offices. The Elections Council will work to nominate a slate of diverse candidates with regards to ability and disability; age; bilingualism and multiculturalism/English language learners; body size and condition; customs and traditions; educational, disciplinary, or career status; ethnicity, race, national origin, or cultural identity; gender, gender identity, and gender expression; geographical background and location; marital status, relational status (including singlehood), and family structure or identity; objective and subjective worldviews and standpoints; political ideologies and affiliations; religion/no religion, spirituality and affiliations, and faith; sexual orientation, identities, and expressions; socioeconomic status, residential status, social class, employment, and national service.

IDC will determine its own process for selecting the liaisons of the committee at each annual meeting. Committee members may be re-elected after being off the committee for one year.

The members of the IDC shall consist of the following officers serving three-year terms:

1. Chair – Two-year term
2. Chair-Elect – One-year term moving to the Chair position for two years
3. Student/New Professional Representative (Liaison to the S/NP Leadership Council) – Two-year term
4. Liaison to the Annual Conference Program Planning Committee
5. Liaison to the Section Chairs
6. Liaison to the Affiliate Councils Board
7. Member-at-Large
8. Liaison to the NCFR Board of Directors – NCFR Board member (Non-voting)
9. NCFR Staff member (Non-voting)