Our integrity provides the foundation which supports the other values critical to the operation of a healthy, functional department. Honesty, responsibility, and the willingness to do the right thing provide direction and foster trust in our shared commitment to our goals. 

Respect for ourselves, each other, and all of our clients opens doors, removing obstacles that inhibit the open and courteous discussion of issues affecting us all. Respect allows us to empathize with students, families, and one another. Mutual respect between colleagues leads to the sort of collaboration we need to solve our collective problems.

Since we operate in a highly regulated profession, we must be accountable for our actions and those of our department. Taking responsibility for our decisions protects the integrity of our programs.

In all actions, we strive for excellence. The pursuit of excellence demands individual and collective ideas to keep us on track. In a profession where the rules and the tools often change, the innovation that springs from fresh ideas is a must.

Maintaining proper balance in our lives allows us the flexibility to navigate even the most unexpected challenges and the stamina to meet the demands of our busy days. Taking the time to enjoy life sharpens the mind and refreshes the soul.

The Feminist Fight Club (FFC) at Colorado State University provides an inclusive space for community, growth, learning, and support for all members. The FFC seeks to develop their skills in identifying and addressing problematic behaviors that disadvantage women and other marginalized groups in the workplace and on campus by building upon the research and strategies presented in the book, Feminist Fight Club.

The Office of Financial Aid’s Feminist Fight Club Memorandum

OFA encourages staff to participate in DREAM Zone training, as trainings are available. This is a program that educates administrators how to better support and work with students who are undocumented.

All full-time staff have undergone Safe Zone training. The Safe Zone program prepares members of the CSU community to serve as a resource on LGBTQ+ issues.

Some full-time staff have participated in the Creating Inclusive Excellence Program.

The CIEP seeks to develop awareness, knowledge, and skills around issues of diversity and inclusion at Colorado State. The goal of the CIEP is to create diversity and inclusion practitioners who impact the climate and culture of Colorado State University towards Inclusive Excellence.

We host monthly dialogues focused on topics of diversity, inclusion, social justice, and equity. During our gatherings, we increase our awareness through shared learning in a variety of ways. We learn hands on skill building and practice for difficult conversations and bystander intervention situations. We dialogue about current events and offer trainings by guest speakers from across campus and the community. Our gatherings create a valuable sense of community among our staff who are committed and engaged in these areas.

Some full-time staff have participated in the Social Justice Leadership Institute.

SJLI is a two day retreat wherein participants explore varying aspects of social justice education and implementation of inclusive policies and practices, specifically what it means to infuse diversity and inclusion best practices into the life of a University.