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Jun 01, 2012

Chancellor Block addresses faculty vote on Community and Conflict requirement

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block issued the following statement on June 1:
 
I’m deeply disappointed that the proposed new general education requirement was not approved, and I’m especially disappointed for the many students who worked with such passion to make the case for a change in curriculum set by faculty. I’m proud of the students who demonstrated their commitment to a cause they believe in.
 
I supported the Community and Conflict in the Modern World proposal, an important piece of a comprehensive strategy to help expose students to different viewpoints as part of their scholarly experience. Regardless of the outcome, our efforts to advance True Bruin Values and our Principles of Community will continue. I encourage students to take advantage of the many courses that could have been used to satisfy the proposed requirement.
 
With my full support, the dean and vice provost for undergraduate education, along with a faculty advisory committee, will work over the next year to expand Fiat Lux seminars that address diversity and community conflict issues; I taught such a seminar this quarter. In addition, I’m working closely with Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Janina Montero to broaden and deepen programs for new students that convey our values and principles and lay a foundation for respectful individual relationships and civil dialogue. Among them are new student orientation and welcome events, the Intergroup Relations Program, UCLA’s Common Book Program and a new series of workshops.
 
I’m proud of our work to foster a welcoming and respectful environment on campus and confident in our ability to prepare students for life in an increasingly multicultural world.