Program commitment to anti-discrimination

The Music Education program continues to engage in a process of review of its practices, including those regarding harassment and discrimination.  

The College and the faculty of the Program in MME are committed to providing a working, learning, and living environment free from discrimination and harassment and to fostering a vibrant, nurturing community founded upon the fundamental dignity and worth of all of its members.

Consistent with this commitment, Teachers College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital or partnership status, citizenship or immigration status, military status, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other legally protected status in the administration of its admissions policies, educational policies, employment, scholarship, loan, and other College-administered programs; treatment, or in access to College programs or activities. TC offers many resources to students, including the student support and advocacy services and access to Columbia Counseling and Psychological Services.

Addressing previous experiences of microaggression and in order to bring greater responsiveness and closely attend to students concerns the program nominated Dr. Patrick Schmidt to serve as a faculty representative who will work with and serve as a first point of contact for students, should they encounter or experience instances of harassment or discrimination as delineated below. Dr. Schmidt will listen, provide guidance, and attempt to assist with a resolution. Dr. Schmidt will further liaise with the Ombuds and the Office of the Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs, should the need arise.

Actions

Consistent with this commitment the faculty in the program acknowledges the following steps in the ongoing effort to address bias, harassment, and microaggressions in the program of Music and Music Education:

1. Every faculty member (professors, instructors, adjuncts) is  required to complete the training. Training this year was completed by all full time faculty by Sept 19th 2022.
2. Program director will post the commitment publicly on the program website and will share with students.
3. Engage with the student body in a series of listening circle conversations (starting February 2023) to engage in constructive dialogue regarding students' needs, program climate, and community development.