TerrapinSTRONG Education
Introducing TerrapinSTRONG Education
TerrapinSTRONG Education is a newly formulated unit that combines the TerrapinSTRONG onboarding program and the former Diversity Training and Education (DTE) unit, both housed within the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Dr. Leslie R. Krafft (she/her) is this unit's inaugural director. The unit will continue to provide the TerrapinSTRONG onboarding program and other educational programs, including orientation to the university and the Words of Engagement Intergroup Dialogue Program (WEIDP). Stay tuned for new educational initiatives as well!
What Is TerrapinSTRONG?
TerrapinSTRONG is a shared vision and values for the entire campus community. It represents our commitment to building community, connection and inclusion on our campus.
The process of becoming TerrapinSTRONG begins as soon as a student is admitted or an employee starts their position. All new faculty, staff and students participate in a common onboarding course, as well as local onboarding initiatives within their division/college/school. These onboarding experiences are just the first step to creating an inclusive campus, leading into learning pathways for continued education and growth.
What Are We Trying to Do?
Vision
The University of Maryland strives to create an inclusive environment where every member of our community feels that they belong and are empowered to reach their full potential.
Mission
TerrapinSTRONG introduces and infuses its vision of inclusion and our institutional values across the university to create a more cohesive identity and a stronger commitment to community, connection and inclusion.
Priorities
Community
TerrapinSTRONG creates a sense of belonging and an expectation of personal responsibility among UMD community members. It acknowledges the exclusionary issues in our shared community history, communicates our values, indicates the importance of taking care of our community and emphasizes the role every person plays in the success of this place.
Connection
TerrapinSTRONG connects people to history, place, and people. TerrapinSTRONG helps members of the UMD community build relationships, find support systems and understand how their work connects to the wider vision of inclusion. It provides opportunities for engagement with ourselves, with each other and with our institution.
Inclusion
TerrapinSTRONG emphasizes the importance of an environment where everyone can reach their full potential. It represents the diversity of our campus community in the past, present, and future, provides resources for support of diverse people, and encourages practices that serve everyone. TerrapinSTRONG brings marginalized voices to the table and clearly communicates our commitment to be a welcoming and safe place.