March 1, 2022
The College of Fine Arts and Communication is dedicated not only to the education of our students but also to the physical, mental and emotional health of our students. We support our students’ efforts in developing their craft and want to see them thrive as human beings. Last week I was made aware of the Instagram account @dearsotd in which students shared concerns regarding the School of Theatre and Dance. After reviewing the content, hearing directly from a student in a meeting and receiving a list of specific issues from current School of Theatre and Dance students, I called for a school-wide listening session Monday, February 28. Also present at that meeting were ECU administrators including the provost, the vice chancellor for student affairs and other faculty from the college including representatives from the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee. The greater faculty were not in attendance as this was a time exclusively for students to be heard. The goal of that two-hour moderated discussion was to begin a dialogue with students to hear their voices and specific concerns. We ended the listening session by reaffirming that this was the first step in our sincere promise to work with students to focus on their concerns. Next steps will include further meetings with students and the development of concrete steps addressing the points listed in the student statement. This process will involve students, faculty and staff at each stage. While I know the pace of addressing some issues and concerns will be slower than others, I want students to know they have our support. For those needing to address mental health issues immediately, please reach out to counseling on campus through our Center for Counseling and Student Development at www.counselingcenter.ecu.edu I am also available to speak with students. Students can reach me at keanl@ecu.edu Sincerely, Linda Kean Professor and Interim Dean College of Fine Arts and Communication East Carolina University