Welcome to the Equity, Engagement, and Belonging Department at Pierce College!
The Equity, Engagement, and Belonging (EEB) department is committed to being an antiracist institution that amplifies Black and Brown student excellence, and is laser-focused on accelerating racial and economic justice for our local communities and beyond. We endeavor to cultivate a deep sense of belonging and engagement for students, staff, and faculty; recognizing that in doing so, our students reap the benefits that come with higher education: higher incomes, better health, and greater social and economic mobility that passes from generation to generation.
The EEB department acknowledges that racism permeates across and within our communities, industries, and organizations, including our own college. We recognize the responsibilities we have in addressing and confronting racism, particularly in the ways we make decisions, the guidance we provide, the policies and practices we engage in, and the manner in which we support those furthest from educational equity.
Our Mission
Our unwavering dedication to equity, engagement, and belonging is at the heart of our educational mission for creating quality educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world. We are committed to cultivating an environment that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that empowers students to reach their full potential and ensures every individual has the opportunity to succeed. As the doorway to higher education for many first-generation, low-income, students of color, Pierce College is well-situated to positively impact the success of our students and the communities in which they live.
Our Commitment to Becoming an Antiracist Institution through Bravery, Care, and Purpose
Pierce College is dedicated to becoming an antiracist institution. Our commitment includes:
- Addressing Systemic Inequities: We actively identify and dismantle systemic barriers that affect the success of those furthest from educational equity, and strive to create fair and equitable opportunities for all, with particular attention to the needs and experiences of Black and Brown students, staff, and faculty.
- Advancing Black and Brown Excellence: We celebrate and support the academic and personal achievements of our Black and Brown students, faculty, and staff. Our initiatives include intentional hiring practices to support Black and Brown student excellence; inclusive practices in the classroom and student support areas; and resources designed to amplify their voices and successes.
- Fostering Inclusive Dialogue: We are committed to facilitating open and honest discussions about race, identity, and justice. Our aim is to create a campus culture where every individual feels heard and valued, and where we work collectively towards meaningful change.
- Investing in Education and Training: We support and prioritize ongoing EDI professional development for our faculty, staff, and students to deepen their understanding of antiracism and enhance their ability to foster an inclusive learning environment.
Join Us in Our Mission
We invite students, faculty, staff, and community members to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can build a college community that supports Black and Brown student excellence and liberation, and exemplifies equity, engagement, and belonging for all. For more information or to get involved, please contact the Equity, Engagement, and Belonging department at EEB@pierce.ctc.edu or visit our office at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom in the Cascade Building, Room 208.