Mission, Vision, and Learning Objectives

Mission Statement

The James L. Curtis Institute for Social Change’s mission is to equip and empower its members to recognize and affirm the rich, unexpected resources available both inside and outside themselves to effect equitable social change. (Approved by committee on 07/09/24)

Vision

The James Curtis Institute for Social Change is committed to meaningful social change. Our members connect theory to practice. They put their lived, acquired, and applied knowledge to work engaging in genuine, mutually beneficial collaboration with community members and organizations. (Approved by committee on 07/09/24)

Values

The James L. Curtis Institute for Social Change (JLCSC) centers all forms of learning around the preservation of dignity for the planet, its resources, and its people. Empowering members to become collaborative social change agents by applying tenants of mutual respect, collective decision-making, and acceptance of the value of diversity in their everyday lives. The skills acquired prepare members to become equitable transformational leaders.

“My life story expresses my personal set of choices at various times of my life to make the best of historical opportunities presented to me to help build a more completely inclusive American society.”

Dr. James L. Curtis

Graduating members will be able to:

• Serve as catalysts and champions for diversifying STEM knowledge, majors, careers, and activism.
• Educate others on the history, practices and possibilities of STEM for solving pressing social issues.
• Apply appropriate STEM concepts in analyzing and resisting racism, white supremacy and racial injustice.
• Develop interdisciplinary partnerships that celebrate diverse ways of knowing, achieving, and teaching in STEM fields.