ABS Diversity Statement

In the Department of Applied Behavioral Science (ABSC) we understand that an equitable and safe multiracial, multiethnic, and multicultural environment produces innovative thinking, research, and learning. We seek to provide an environment for learning and working where differences are valued and each person in the ABSC community belongs, is supported, and is offered an equitable opportunity – irrespective of national origin, age, sex, health status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or disability – to achieve their academic and professional goals.

DEIB Committee

Mission

To provide academic, research, training, and other equitable opportunities to foster a welcoming and enriched learning and working environment of inclusion where all individuals across the spectrum of human conditions are acknowledged and valued.

About Us

The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee is composed of a collaborative group of faculty, staff, and students in the Department of Applied Behavioral Science (ABSc). Our main goal is to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the department by creating initiatives and resources to promote awareness, increase visibility, and facilitate discussion on these topics. Activities include hosting monthly meetings, developing and disseminating educational materials and resources, creating initiatives and opportunities, and organizing events. We actively partner with other groups in ABSc Department, including the Graduate Student Organization (GSO). We maintain accountability for our activities by sharing meeting minutes, seeking open feedback and suggestions from the communities we serve, and reporting to the faculty and the Chair of ABSc. To learn more about us, please contact the DEIB Committee Chair, currently Dr. Francisco at vtf@ku.edu.

Diversity-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, and inclusion. Additional resources related to the broader field of applied behavior analysis are listed at the bottom. If you have suggestions for additional resources, please email absc@ku.edu.

University of Kansas DEIB 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 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Funding Program. Students, staff, and faculty are eligible to receive up to $1000 to support proposed DEIB-related 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 DEI Committee Chair, currently Dr. Francisco.

Previous Funded Projects:

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.

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.