Replace DEI statement to comply with SB129

Existing statement:

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Statement:

The University of Alabama at Birmingham considers the diversity of its students, faculty, and staff to be a strength and critical to its educational mission. In this class, we will strive to be an inclusive community where we can learn from the many perspectives and worldviews which may differ from our own. We are all expected to contribute to creating a respectful, welcoming, and safe environment that fosters a sense of belonging through open and honest dialogue. To this end, we should always conduct discussions in a way that honors, respects, and extends dignity to all class members.

Please visit https://www.uab.edu/dei/ for more information.

Proposed statement:

Office of Access and Engagement:

The University of Alabama at Birmingham considers all its students, faculty, and staff to be a strength and critical to its educational mission. In this class, we will strive to be a community where we can learn from the many perspectives and worldviews which may differ from our own. We are all expected to contribute to creating a respectful, welcoming, and safe environment that fosters a sense of belonging through open and honest dialogue. To this end, we should always conduct discussions in a way that honors, respects, and extends dignity to all class members.

Please visit The Office of Access and Engagement. The Office of Access and Engagement Website for more information.

I've contacted the OAE for advice. Failing that, we can use the text on the "About" page of their site: https://www.uab.edu/access-engagement/about

The Office of Access & Engagement works to promote success for everyone in the UAB community. We work to address challenges faced by our students, faculty and staff to ensure everyone has access to available programs and resources they need to promote success and retention, and to foster an accessible and welcoming culture.

Since its founding, UAB has played a pivotal role in shaping the future in Birmingham and beyond by making a positive difference in as many lives as possible. We do this by serving all people — a commitment that continues today through our vision, mission and shared values.

The Office of Access & Engagement strives to make sure every member of the UAB community has access to available programs and resources they need, recognizing that some students, faculty and staff may face more barriers and have a greater need for additional support than others due to their circumstances.