We, the members of the NUNM community, enter into this agreement with a shared vision of fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all of us to study, work and commune. We acknowledge that upholding the following elements is vital to our collective growth and well-being:

Commitment to Community

First and foremost, we must “show up” in order to create community. We must be present, engage and contribute. Furthermore, we acknowledge position, power, and roles and proactively seek to break down barriers to communication and learning by inviting difference, decreasing defensiveness, building trust, and embracing humility regarding one’s own experience and knowledge.

Equity

We are committed to creating a community that embraces diversity and ensures equity for all its members. We shall proactively work towards fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and welcomed. We recognize that equity is not simply the absence of discrimination; it is the a proactive process of inclusion and access to resources. We will utilize awareness of difference, advocacy, and allyship to engage in the active process of equity.

Respectful Discourse

As an institution of higher education, we regularly discuss controversial topics. This is a powerful means of creating understanding. We firmly believe in the power of respectful and constructive communication. Regardless of differences in opinions or perspectives, we shall engage in discourse that is respectful, courteous, and open-minded, and which preserves professional and psychological safety for each individual. We shall actively listen to one another and seek to understand each other’s viewpoints without resorting to personal attacks or offensive language.

Personal Responsibility

Each of us is responsible for generating community. We shall each strive to act bravely, ethically and with integrity, in order to create the environment that fosters the growth and well-being of all of us. We aim to:

• Practice self-awareness and open-mindedness;
• Be transparent, thoughtful, honest, respectful and reflective in communication, feedback, and all other interpersonal interaction;
• Be kind and respectful of one another, even when there’s disagreement;
• Approach discussions constructively and avoid personal, disparaging, or abusive attacks;
• Actively listen and try to account for full context;
• Recognize and observe others’ personal boundaries, physical or otherwise;
• Be open to hearing how your words and actions affect others; and
• While we all make mistakes, be willing to right wrongs and learn from them.
• Practice appropriate strategies for effectively managing stress, uncertainty, and conflict.