NSCAD University demonstrates commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion by launching a six-faculty cohort hire of Black, Indigenous and racialized faculty

NSCAD University has announced a cohort hiring initiative of six faculty members who identify as Black, Indigenous or racialized. NSCAD is adopting a cohort model to support the ambitions of equity-deserving artists, designers, and academics as well as to diversify NSCAD’s faculty. The ultimate goal is to enrich the educational experience of the community. The search for new faculty will begin in January 2022.

“In order for NSCAD University to be a welcoming place for all students, staff and faculty and to continue in its role as an engine of creativity, it must reflect the rich cultural diversity of the world,” said Dr. Ann-Barbara Graff, Vice-President (Academic and Research) and Provost. “NSCAD is demonstrating its commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion by hiring a cohort of diverse faculty in positions across the university. This will ensure that not one individual alone is responsible for our efforts to diversify, and recognizes that we are all ultimately responsible for the success of our EDI commitments.”

Hiring a cohort of new faculty will allow the group to share and learn from one another and for the university to provide support, mentorship opportunities and resources for the new faculty. NSCAD is also committed to providing ongoing cultural competence training to staff, faculty, and students.

“Diversity of faculty has significant, direct benefits for teaching and research in higher education. Educational experiences for students are enriched and opportunities for growth and new academic pursuits among colleagues are encouraged,” said Dr. April Mandrona, Assistant Professor and Director of the Masters of Arts in Art Education program. “For NSCAD, the cohort hire is an important step toward embedding equitable relations across the campus culture.”

The new faculty will join the following areas: Art Education, Contemporary Ceramics, Contemporary Sculptural Practice, Expanded Media, Indigenous Art Histories, and Photography and Lens-Based Practices. The goal is to have all new faculty appointments begin in July 2022.

Keep an eye on NSCAD’s website in the early new year for more information on the cluster hire. For more information on NSCAD’s EDI efforts, visit nscad.ca/EDI.