Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) is committed to fostering a culture of belonging that embraces and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in our programs, our outreach, and among our staff and volunteers. It is this commitment that positions CCE to serve a richly diverse New York State population. 

Belonging and equity at CCE are achieved through strategic and regulatory practices that ensure:  

  • equal opportunity for all staff and volunteers; 
  • the elimination of discrimination based on federal, state and local protected statuses, including but not limited to race, color, religion, political beliefs, national or ethnic origin, sex, gender/gender identity, transgender status, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, protected veteran status and individuals with disabilities; 
  • the values of diversity, equity and inclusion in employment and in educational programs; and 
  • immediate and appropriate responses to actions that run contrary to CCE’s commitment to furthering diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Background:

Foundational Resources for Your Board

Leading with Intent: Reviewing the State of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion on Nonprofit Boards (Board Source, 2021)

5 Questions to Get Boards Started with DE&I (Board Source, 2017)

Report Addresses Racial Diversity on Boards, but Misses Need for Cultural Change (Nonprofit Quarterly, Feb 2019)

Letter of the Law & Compliance

Affirmative Action Diversity & Inclusion Plan (AADIP)

USDA/Civil Rights

Creating a Culture of Belonging on the Board

Specific Strategies: 

Budgetary Considerations for DE&I
Nominating Process
HR Policies
  • Reviewing your holiday leave policy for inclusivity and comparing to your community data.
Program/Issue Committees
  • Annually, looking at your program participant data and comparing to your community data.