Diversity Beyond Tokenism

How the Lack of Racial Diversity Among UMN Professors Impacts Students

By Trent Andersen 

During my college career, I have attended two community colleges and two state universities—messy, I know. What is even messier is that during that time I have only had four professors of color. It has been critically important to my personal, professional, and intellectual development to have professors who share my marginal identities. These professors include voices in their syllabi that may stray from the canon, enriching the learning experiences for everyone in the classroom, regardless of their race.. 

Being able to discuss the nuances of race at a predominantly white institution has been invaluable. Particularly given that discussions on the topic of race are often wrought with microaggressions and point-blank racist statements, intended and unintended alike. John Coleman, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, states that “to truly engage with the community, CLA must be a reflection of that community,” but it currently isn’t. In order for Dean Coleman’s vision to be effectively realized, the decision makers on this campus must grapple with the reality we are faced with and consciously recruit and include diverse faculty members in important, systemic decision-making processes. 

The University’s student body is 67% white, and 76.5% of professors are white.  There must be a system-wide push to not only recruit faculty of color but to allow for their full participation in university systems. This feels especially timely and critical in light of the Board of Regents voting 10-1 against President Kaler’s proposal to rename buildings on campus titled after racist figures. The University has a moral obligation to ensure students and faculty of color are given the resources necessary to succeed beyond their college careers, rather than simply serving as token representatives during discussions on race.