New wording aims to promote safe and welcoming environment"One of our interests was to include not just students and faculty, but also staff and patients -- everyone who is a part of the Duke community in some way," said Damon Seils, a member of the task force that recommended the change.
"The university strongly endorses equal opportunity, equal access, and a respectful work environment for everyone," said Benjamin Reese, vice president for institutional equity. "[The new language] emphasizes our commitment to nondiscrimination and equal opportunity. It emphasizes our commitment to equity and fairness for everyone, including persons who are transsexual and transgender."