IUPUI University Library Undergraduate Diversity Scholar Program 2013-2014

Background

Indiana University and IUPUI have long held commitments to diversity. The Indiana University Board of Trustees statement of the University's Objectives and Ideals states, in part, that "Indiana University is committed to the principle of equal educational and occupational opportunities for all persons and to positive action toward elimination of discrimination in all phases of University life, as set forth in the Indiana University Affirmative Action Plan." (June 29, 1974, Indiana University Academic Handbook, 1992, p. 2, Appendix F). In 2006, IUPUI Chancellor Charles R. Bantz renewed this commitment and reinvigorated IUPUI's actions towards the end of making the IUPUI population more representative of our globally diverse community and making IUPUI's climate welcoming for all students, employees, and visitors. In the Fall of 2007 Chancellor Bantz called for the formation of departmental Diversity Councils whose responsibility it is to create departmental level diversity strategies, initiatives, and goals that aid in reaching the campus-wide IUPUI Diversity Vision, Mission, Values & Goals (http://www.iupui.edu/diversity/vision.html).

What is Diversity?

The University Library Diversity Council recognizes various attributes relating to diversity including, but not limited to, ability, age, cultural heritage, ethnic background, gender, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status.

The Diversity Scholar Program

In line with the library’s mission and vision towards greater diversity, the IUPUI University Library Undergraduate Diversity Scholar Program was developed. This program gives undergraduates interested in diversity and promoting multicultural awareness at University Library the opportunity to:

• Experience professional level work within an academic library setting
• Gain valuable and applicable communication and research skills
• Receive mentoring, build resumes, and prepare for future employment
• Lead initiatives or projects developed themselves that enhance diversity goals 
• Earn $10 an hour for 20 hours a week for 10 months (the 2013-14 academic year)

Position Description

Under the supervision of a University Library librarian, the scholar will:

• Organize A Film Series Project, the University Library Diversity Film Series, which requires cooperating with other students and campus groups, selecting and promoting three films per semester, and leading film discussions.
• Create library displays (two per semester) that help to develop the multicultural awareness of IUPUI students, staff, and faculty
• Collaborate on projects with several library units, including the Digital Scholarship Team, External Relations Team, and/or Teaching, Learning, & Research Team.
• Lead his or her own initiative to enhance diversity goals by developing a researched project proposal, implementing it, presenting it to the University Library librarians and staff, and sharing his or her research and results online.

Required Qualifications

• A demonstrated commitment to diversity and social issues
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• The ability to initiate projects and to work on them independently
• The ability to work in a team-based environment
• The ability to keep a regular, set work schedule
• A minimum GPA of 2.0 on a four-point scale

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office and Publisher
• Knowledge of social networking tools such as Facebook, blogging, and Twitter

Selection Criteria

The following factors will be considered in our new Scholar: awareness of and commitment to diversity issues, community involvement, good communication skills, ability to work well in a team environment, and academic achievement.

Applicants from underrepresented populations are highly encouraged to apply.

Application Process

The application process involves a 1 page application form, a brief essay, and 2 recommendations. Directions and paperwork for completing each of these components are attatched below.

Deadline

May 24, 2013 by 5:00 PM

Questions

If you have any questions, please contact Meagan Lacy at (317) 278-1148.