For the LSU AgCenter to be a world-class multicultural organization serving all the people of Louisiana, it must be inclusive. It must capitalize on the diversity of its employees and its clientele and realize that the diversity of people is an essential part of achieving its overall mission. Today many people, including some of our stakeholders, perceive the AgCenter as an organization that has not been inclusive in its employment practices or in the population reached through services.
There must be a process of inclusion in all AgCenter programs which creates a pluralistic culture that reflects the interests, contributions and values of members of diverse groups. And, although some relationships exist, there needs to be an even closer relationship with Southern University (Land-Grant), much more than the courts have mandated. Above all, each of us must be honest in dealing with these issues.
The LSU Agricultural Center, aspiring to be a truly excellent organization and working to fulfill its mission to improve the quality of life for all people of Louisiana, considers diversity and inclusion as central to its core mission. As such, it will become an organization serving as a catalyst for change that:
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Develops an understanding of employees, potential employees and clientele groups from diverse backgrounds, including differences in age, gender, ethnicity, national origin, physical and mental ability, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religious beliefs or spiritual practice and other human traits, and foster an attitude of true appreciation for all they contribute to the organization;
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capitalizes on all the resources of its employees and eliminates barriers to people reaching their full potential;
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supports staff and faculty at all levels with diversity training and in working with diverse audiences;
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produces a new organizational culture that encourages mutual respect, trust, acceptance and teamwork, regardless of differences, and recognizes contributions based upon merit;
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develops and implements innovative programs focused on the needs and issues of an ever-changing diverse clientele in Louisiana and in our programs abroad.