91��Ƭ

Dear 91��Ƭ Community, ��

We are thrilled to have everyone back on campus and excited about new opportunities in the year ahead. As you return, you might notice some important changes that we want to update you on today.��

These are certainly challenging times for higher education so keeping our values as our North Star is critical. At the 91��Ƭ, our commitment to inclusion and community-building is steadfast. We are continually looking for ways to approach our work so every student—and every member of our community—can access support easily and with care. ��

The changes we are announcing today largely arose from initial recommendations by the Community and Belonging Steering Committee—a dedicated group of faculty and staff who have been working since early summer to help us live our values more fully. You can read the committee’s full charge here. The decisions we are sharing with you today reflect the voices and perspectives of our community, careful consideration of our shared values, and the goal of helping all individuals thrive. ��

What’s happening now

University leadership has approved the creation of the Division of Community Support and Engagement (DCSE)��for the 2025–26 academic year. While this new division is likely to have several iterations over time, to begin, it brings together staff from:  ��

• The division formerly known as the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DDEI);��
• The University Ombuds;��
• The team formerly known as The Cultural Center which is now part of the Community Connections Team and blends elements of TCC and DDEI to create something new for the 91��Ƭ community.��

Many services will be co-located in the Community Commons, which is the beginning of creating another 91��Ƭ community-centered hub for support, bridge building, and deepening ties between students, faculty, and staff. ��

As proposed by the Community and Belonging Steering Committee, the mission of the Division of Community Support and Engagement states:��

The Division of Community Support and Engagement is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the 91��Ƭ community. We foster meaningful community connections and empower individuals through collaborative engagement and holistic support. Guided by 91��Ƭ’s values of excellence, innovation, engagement, integrity, and inclusion we strive to build a campus culture where everyone feels valued and cared for.

Why?

The vision statement of the new Division of Community Support and Engagement says it best:��

We envision a 91��Ƭ where every individual feels a deep sense of belonging, support, and connection. Through inclusive engagement, bridge building, compassionate care, and intentional collaboration, we aim to transform campus culture and climate into one where inclusion, pluralism, and restorative practices work together toward community engagement. CSE aspires to be a catalyst for continuous improvement, ensuring that all are welcome in the pursuit of a thriving academic community.

This—our vision of what 91��Ƭ can and should be—is our why. We believe the mission and vision statements, as proposed by the Community and Belonging Steering Committee, truly capture our values and serve as a North Star for community building.��

How our 91��Ƭ community is being supported

• Our values are unchanged: 91��Ƭ’s commitment to inclusion remains central to who we are and how we serve. We will continue these programs and services while ensuring our spaces are welcoming and usable by all members of our community.��
• Continued care for our community: Services and support structures like affinity groups and assistance for first-generation students are still key pillars of 91��Ƭ.��
• Centralized and visible: Services that are part of the new division are located in the Community Commons, creating a clear, central point of access for students, faculty, and staff seeking support.��
• This is a first step, not the finish: The Community and Belonging Steering Committee began its work earlier this summer and will continue engaging students, faculty, and staff throughout the year. Today’s announcement allows us to enhance support now while the broader work continues. ��

What to expect next

• New name and resources: You’ll begin to see, and may already see, the names “Community Support and Engagement” and “Community Connections” on signage, web pages, and other places.��
• Opportunities to contribute: We will offer a variety of avenues for engagement in the weeks and months ahead. Your feedback will shape how we continue to improve. ��

Change can raise questions, and we welcome yours. In the days and weeks ahead, we will share with the community various engagement opportunities. In the meantime, please visit the new ��to learn more about the division. Our goal is straightforward: to help every person at 91��Ƭ access the care, support, and community they need to thrive. ��

Thank you for everything you do to make 91��Ƭ a place where people feel seen, embraced, and inspired. ��

With appreciation, ��

Christopher M. Whitt��
Vice Chancellor, Community Support and Engagement��

��