Diversity Statement

As a community outreach program of Southern Oregon University (SOU), Jefferson Public Radio (JPR) is committed to fostering a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion. JPR's commitment to these values is rooted in its public service missionand aligns with Strategic Direction IV of SOU's Strategic Plan: "SOU will create a diverse, equitable, inclusive community where learners will flourish."

In addition, JPR operates within the framework established by Oregon House Bill 2864 which requires each Oregon public institution of higher education to develop cultural competency standardsfor the institution and its employees. HB 2864 defines cultural competency as “an understanding of how institutions and individuals can respond respectfully and effectively to people from all cultures, economic statuses, language backgrounds, races, ethnic backgrounds, disabilities, religions, genders, gender identifications, sexual orientations, veteran statuses and other characteristics in a manner that recognizes, affirms and values the worth, and preserves the dignity, of individuals, families and communities.”

JPR Diversity Goals

• To recruit and retain a diverse workforce that is representative of its service area.
• To provide equal opportunity in employment.
• To educate its management and staff in best practices for creating an inclusive and diverse environment for all persons.

JPR Diversity Practices and Initiatives

• JPR is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunity in every aspect of personnel policy and practice including: recruitment, selection, placement, training and advancement of employees.
• Recruitment for employment opportunities at JPR takes place through an open and fair process consistent with SOU Human Resource department guidelines.
• JPR job postings are submitted to professional minority organizations consistent with its established FCC EEO program with the goal of attracting a diverse candidate pool. Special effort will be made by JPR management and search committee members to recruit minority candidates.
• JPR management and other appropriate staff attend training seminars or workshops in order to learn ways to create a more diverse workforce and to maintain a culture of respect and non-discrimination.
  
• JPR management annually reviews practices designed to fulfill JPR’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Diversity at JPR

JPR has 18 permanent members of its public radio staff. Women comprise a total of 56% of JPR’s permanent staff, exceeding the demographic makeup of Jackson County, Oregon. JPR historically has a very low turnover rate, and will continue to recruit diverse candidates for future open positions. JPR’s staff generally reflects the demographic makeup of its listening area.