Applying the principles of intentionality, accountability, reflective practice are essential to achieving inclusive excellence.
Intentional.
Our minds preference similarity. Inclusivity requires us to think outside of what we already know and to do things differently. If we aren’t intentional about creating an equitable, inclusive, and welcoming environment, it won’t happen. To see inside our blinds spots requires intentional effort. For example, achieving a deep and diverse applicant pool for a faculty or staff position requires an intentional effort to write the position announcement in a way that appeals to groups that aren’t normally in the applicant pool and to advertise in places that will attract those candidates.
Accountable.
Being accountable means that we will act and that we are willing to allow our actions to be measured against a standard. Because inclusive excellence is the standard for everyone, everyone should be held accountable for what they do and say to contribute or not contribute to an inclusive and welcoming environment. We hold ourselves accountable through regular audits and performance evaluations.
Reflective Practice.
We are being reflective when we ask ourselves questions such as, “how are we doing?”, “is what we are doing (or saying) helping people feel welcomed and like their contributions are valued?”, and “is what we are doing increasing or decreasing access to our programs and services?” We are engaging in reflective practice when our responses to these questions changes our behavior.