We affirm the inherent dignity of every person, value human diversity and respect for differences, and reject all forms of prejudice and discrimination.

AAEC expects that faculty, staff, and students take individual and collective responsibility for eliminating bias and discrimination. Every member of the department is expected to reflect the value of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) in the spirit of community, diversity, and excellence. Every member contributes to the success of the department and Virginia Tech.

AAEC faculty, staff, and students are expected to abide by the Virginia Tech Principles of Community, Faculty/Staff Handbook, and Student Code of Conduct. Additional resources for faculty, staff, and students may be found at InclusiveVT.

We work to:

  • Promote an environment that acknowledges and celebrates diversity 
  • Promote inclusion, acceptance, and respect for all members of our community
  • Increase faculty, staff, and student diversity

We do this by:

  • Empowering the AAEC Diversity and Inclusion Committee to lead initiatives that address the above-mentioned efforts 
  • Employing inclusive practices that ensure accessible and safe classrooms, shared department spaces, and departmental events
  • Organizing activities that strengthen our community through shared learning, relationship development, collegiality, and communication. 
  • Rejecting all forms of injustice, unequal treatment, and intolerance

Diversity and Inclusion Committee Members:

  • Michael Cary
  • Xi He
  • Chanita Holmes
  • Catherine Larochelle (Chair)
  • Jonathan Van Senten
  • Melissa Vidmar