Connection - Office of the Vice Provost for Institutional Inclusive Excellence

The Office of the Vice Provost for Institutional Inclusive Excellence intentionally provides opportunities for connection to promote relationship-building across the University. Connection at Tufts fosters an inclusive learning and work environment where everyone feels valued, respected and accepted. When all members of the Tufts community feel a sense of connection, we are positioned to collaborate, innovate, and collectively advance our mission.

Connection is foundational to advancing inclusive excellence at Tufts. It allows us to

Have greater engagement and collaboration with community members across departments, centers, and schools
Promote a culture of care where every person is acknowledged for their unique and authentic contributions
Gather and build a community of mutual respect as a fundamental principle of inclusion

Creating space for authentic connection continues to be a driving force of our shared work together. Connection, as an OVPIIE method, is about designing programs and initiatives that places people at the center and fosters the growth of an inclusive community. We seek to incorporate connection alongside all of our other methods: collaboration, dialogue, learning, and strategy.

Programs and Initiatives:

CommuniTea
Employee Affinity Groups
Faculty Writing Retreat
Juneteenth
Open Houses and Receptions

Resources:

In addition to our yearly programming, coaching is available by request for you or your team as it relates to fostering connection, mentorship, and belonging in your area. Coaching and consultation can be utilized for thought partnership, program and policy guidance, and co-creation of workshops or dialogues. If this is something you’re interested in or you would like to speak to an IIE team member about, please fill out our consultation form.