June 1, 2020

We at CGI, acknowledge the pain and senseless acts of murder against people of color that have taken place and continue to take place worldwide. This year has shined light on the refusal of many to focus on seeing others as equal instead of less than. We are deeply saddened by this choice as we understand the impact it has on our black and brown brothers and sisters.

We extend our sympathies to the families and friends of those that have lost their lives this year and prior; to those that have made the news and those that have not.

As a school who trains students to be Doctors of Behavioral Health (DBH), we find ourselves in a unique position to contribute our thoughts. The focus of our DBH program is to create disruptors and revolutionary thinking in healthcare, and to inevitably lift up our communities. Mental health workers serve in a critical capacity in our neighborhoods and in society. By providing validation and support, coaching and facilitation of healing, we help our patient partners and health provider partners work towards a more just society together.

We stand for equality and equity for all, and we strive to achieve and maintain equanimity in our world.

The events of this past week reinforce the critical need to create and cultivate inclusive spaces; internally and externally, both in person and online, where all people are welcomed and respected. We remain committed to promoting equity and inclusion across our entire organization, and in all work that we do in our communities.

It is our belief that higher education can contribute to the large scale change necessary to aid our country in moving forward. Now is the time as change is imperative. Every member of the CGI Staff and Faculty are committed to being the rising tide that lifts all boats.