LTCC Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusivity, Diversity

November 16, 2016

In response to concerns expressed by students locally and nationwide, the Lake Tahoe Community College District is sharing the following letter reaffirming its commitment to protecting student rights and ensuring a safe learning environment for all:

 

Dear LTCC Students,

We are writing to assure you in the wake of the 2016 election that Lake Tahoe Community College stands alongside the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office in championing the values of inclusiveness and diversity. This college is committed to the success of all of our students and to ensuring that a safe environment, both on campus and online, is available to everyone who relies on our college to learn, grow, and succeed.

There has been a recent rise in student fear nationally, and particularly among the undocumented, members of the LGBTQ community, Muslims, and other vulnerable groups. These fears are certainly understandable: reports of incidents motivated by hate have risen since Election Day. Please know that LTCC stands in solidarity against these incidents and welcomes all of our campus community members to join the call to embrace a college environment that is inclusive, respectful, and civil – one that embraces diversity in all its forms. We hope this is a sentiment and direction you can readily agree with and take part in.

Furthermore, we want to remind all of our students, including undocumented students, that financial aid remains available for them to pursue their educational goals. At LTCC, in-state enrollment fees and state financial aid, including fee waivers, Cal Grants and privately funded institutional scholarships, are available to qualifying undocumented students. These benefits are protected by California law. You can find more information about these benefits by clicking on the “Dream Act” link at icanaffordcollege.com.

We want you all to know that LTCC will always view diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our mission. As a public institution of higher education, we will continue to work to ensure that our entire community has full access to the college and to the support our students need to succeed in their studies. We are also deeply committed to protecting the rights of all students who attend this college. On behalf of Lake Tahoe Community College’s Board of Trustees, faculty, administrators, and staff, know that we will do our very best to support all of you. We are proud to have you as part of our student body, and we will do everything in our power to ensure your success.

Sincerely,

 

Dr. Kindred Murillo, LTCC Superintendent/President

Dr. Mark D. Williams, LTCC Academic Senate President

Dr. Michelle Risdon, Interim Vice President of Instruction

Jeff DeFranco, Vice President of Administrative Services

Dr. Fritz Wenck, LTCC Board of Trustees President

Sue Gochis, Executive Dean of Student Success