Statement on Open Dialogue and Inclusion

At Franklin College, we are a community committed to allowing diverse, inclusive, and sometimes even controversial, opinions and experiences for our students and greater community. This commitment is intentionally evident in the events we host, the programming we develop and our steadfast promise of making all feel valued and respected. Our intent is to provide information and experiences to foster discussion that is both civil and respectful and increases understanding of the rich diversity within our global society.

We also are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment and to ensuring that educational and employment decisions are based on individuals’ abilities and qualifications. Consistent with these principles and applicable laws, it is our policy not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status as consistent with the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment and Related Misconduct. No person on the basis of protected status shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under any college program or activity, including with respect to employment terms and conditions. Such a policy ensures that only relevant factors are considered and that equitable and consistent standards of conduct and performance are applied.

Franklin College Values

Franklin College upholds a common set of values that enhances the community and sustains personal, spiritual, intellectual and professional growth for a lifetime. We value:

People of INTEGRITY who exhibit

  • honest and ethical conduct and speech
  • responsibility in personal, academic and professional lives

 Commitment to INCLUSIVITY that honors

  • all forms of diversity
  • the dignity of self and others
  • empathy, sincerity and openness

 Culture of INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY that promotes

  • deep reflection about knowledge, beliefs and ideas
  • the ability to recognize, formulate and ask discerning questions
  • independent thinking

 Drive for INNOVATION and CREATIVITY that encourages

  • a willingness to take risks
  • adaptability to an ever-changing world
  • the ability to solve complex problems

Spirit of COMMUNITY that fosters

  • a collaborative environment that is responsive to the needs of others
  • a supportive, service-minded network
  • respect for the personal beliefs, faiths and convictions that give purpose and meaning to our lives