ABS Statement on Impact and Belonging

In the Department of Applied Behavioral Science (ABSC) we understand that an equitable and safe multiracial, multiethnic, and multicultural environment fosters innovation and excellence. We strive to cultivate an environment for learning and working where all lived experiences are valued and each person in the ABSC community belongs, is supported, and enjoys equitable opportunities – irrespective of national origin, age, sex, health status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or disability.

Committee on Impact and Belonging

Mission

To create resources, opportunities, and initiatives that foster an enriched and inclusive learning and working environment where all individuals across the spectrum of human conditions are acknowledged, valued, and belong, leading to greater collective impact.

About Us

A collaborative group of faculty, staff, and students from the Department of Applied Behavioral Science (ABSC) comprise the Committee on Impact and Belonging. Our primary aim is to promote attitudes and actions within the department that result in impact and belonging for all. We create resources and implement initiatives to nourish an environment of cultural awareness and humility, where differences are validated, respected, and celebrated. We offer opportunities for discussion, self-reflection, and engagement on topics germane to impact and belonging. We partner strategically with other groups within ABSC, especially the Graduate Student Organization (GSO), to elevate others’ voices. We commit to transparency and accountability by sharing meeting minutes, seeking feedback and suggestions from the communities we serve, and reporting to the faculty and the Chair of ABSC. Learn more about us! Contact the Committee Chair, Dr. Francisco at vtf@ku.edu.

Related Resources at KU and Beyond

The following list provides links to offices, centers, and other resources at the University of Kansas related to diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion. Additional resources related to the broader field of applied behavioral science are listed at the bottom. If you have suggestions for additional resources, please email absc@ku.edu.

University of Kansas Resources

Other Relevant Resources in Applied Behavior Analysis

Department of Applied Behavioral Science Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Funding Program

The department is pleased to announce the establishment of the Impact and Belonging Funding Program. Students, staff, and faculty are eligible to receive up to $1000 to support proposed relevant projects and are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Please download the Call for Proposals and Application for further details.

Questions may be addressed to either the ABS chair, Dr. Claudia Dozier or the Committee Chair, Dr. Francisco.

Previous Funded Projects:

2023 -

  • “Research on a Translingual Functional Communication Response in Puerto Rico” - (Celibetz Colon Ortiz; Dr. Jessica Juanico, BCBA-D)
  • “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: A Workshop on Fostering Respectful Relationships" – (Stacha Leslie, BCBA/LBA; Marissa Kamlowsky, BCBA/LBA; Claudia Dozier, PhD, BCBA-D/LBA)
  • “Research and Practice: Changing the community with DEIB action plans” (Fernanda Oda)

2022 -

  • “Continuing the Conversation on Social Justice and Equity in the Department of Applied Behavioral Analysis” – (Dr. Michael Amlung; Dr. Robin Kuhn, BCBA, LBA; and the ABS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee) – This project builds upon ongoing DEI-related activities in the Department of Applied Behavioral Science—including proseminar roundtables, DEI resources, and climate surveys—by providing funding to invite a distinguished external speaker to KU Lawrence for a department-wide colloquium and roundtable conversation with students and faculty.

2021 -

  • “Overcoming Bias: Acknowledgement, Self-Awareness, Authenticity, and Engagement” – (Dr. Kelley Harrison, BCBA, LBA and Stacha Leslie, BCBA, LBA) – This project implemented education and training in cultural humility for staff of the Edna A. Hill Child Development Center (CDC) at KU. The trainings focused on creating an environment that challenges prejudice, stereotyping, & bias across children & adults in the CDC. Results from this project were presented at the Big 12 Teaching and Learning Conference in June 2021.