IDEALLY Clarkson College

Clarkson College, steadfast in its commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and thriving community, embraces the "IDEALLY" framework as the cornerstone of our institutional ethos. This framework, rooted in principles of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, Liberation, Love, and affirmation through "Yes," encapsulates our dedication to creating a campus environment where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered. By intertwining these tenets with our College's mission and values, we aim to forge a dynamic educational landscape that constantly evolves to mirror the richness of human experience. Dive deeper into each element of "IDEALLY" to understand our vision for a bright, inclusive future at Clarkson College.

 

Inclusion – active engagement across forms of difference.

  • Clarkson College welcomes all populations and recognizes their unique contributions to the organization.
  • We encourage authentic and empowered participation that stems from a true sense of belonging.
  • It is more than just a seat at the table – it is a voice in key discussions and a vote in decision-making processes.

Diversity – factors that contribute to how we, as individuals, experience the world.

  • Clarkson College acknowledges the infinite ways in which we differ from one another.
  • Birth demographics can include age, race, and sex assigned at birth; personal demographics can include communication style, educational background, and socio-economic status.
  • We assert that unity is possible without requiring uniformity.

Equity – intentional approach to creating solutions accounting for an individual’s life experiences and/or circumstances.

  • Clarkson College extends unique opportunities to individuals and groups so they can enjoy full, healthy lives both personally and professionally.
  • We understand that not everyone starts from the same place or needs the same things.
  • Achieving equity is a process that addresses and corrects disparities.

Access – an open-door approach to providing educational opportunities and resources for all.

  • Clarkson College provides entry points for meaningful engagement to everyone regardless of ability, background, or experience.
  • We build systems and processes that empower disadvantaged groups so that they may benefit from and contribute to the success of the institution.
  • Reciprocal relationships are sustained through conscientious and continued dialogue.

Liberation – acknowledging, combating, and removing the roots of oppression.

  • Clarkson College participates in efforts to effect real and lasting change in the social systems that can constrict and restrict all our lives.
  • We employ critical thinking to analyze and address systemic and institutional oppression.
  • It is the freedom to express every facet of identity unapologetically while being attentive to how our viewpoints and beliefs impact others whose experiences may be different than our own.

Love – deep appreciation of and respect for the dynamic complexities of humanity.

  • Clarkson College leads with heart when we root ourselves in nonjudgment and positivity as we navigate change and overcome adversity.
  • We encourage individuals and groups to share with us how they prefer to experience love and belonging.
  • We use this knowledge to ensure our plans and actions align with those values or preferences.

Yes – affirming actions and behaviors that build and sustain a culture of belonging.

  • Clarkson College believes these statements to be true and good.
  • The definition for each tenet is fluid and full of life, readily malleable as the language and discourse for these concepts evolve over time.
  • Combined with the Mission and Values of our great College, this framework permits everyone to become “IDEALLY Clarkson College.”

 

 

- Created July 2022. Revised September 2024 by Michael Ehrecke, People and Culture Administrator at Clarkson College
For more information please contact [email protected].