More than two years ago, the faculty and leadership of the Curry School of Education and Human Development began a process of diligence inquiry into the namesake of the school, Jabez Lamar Monroe Curry and of William Henry Ruffner, the namesake of one of its buildings. As part of that process, this website presents information gathered during a thorough process of study regarding both J.L.M. Curry and W.H. Ruffner conducted by the Curry School of Education and Human Development Ad Hoc Committee on Naming, an informational and temporary committee formed by Bob Pianta, Dean of the Curry School.
We must rededicate ourselves—as educators and as citizens—to the work of inclusion and equity, and to improving civic education.
To unflinchingly examining and owning a history that can neither be erased nor replaced while also claiming a better, improved future.”
—Bob Pianta
The Curry School of Education and Human Development values diversity, equity and inclusion in all of its complexity and richness. We engage our students with multiple perspectives to prepare them to be active agents of change in a complex global society. We intentionally seek opportunities to expand diversity at our school through recruitment, retention, teaching, research and service. Our goal is the development of a community that promotes and values diversity and equity.
Though many strides have been made, there is much more work to be done. Our quest is to create and sustain a learning community that purposefully and strategically acknowledges and values diversity, equity and inclusion—and is committed to preparing educators and other professionals who will, through teaching, research and service, contribute to a body of knowledge that will improve outcomes for all learners.