Underrepresented Populations

Mission: The overall mission of the Underrepresented Populations Committee (URPOP) of CPDD is to increase the presence and involvement of underrepresented groups in CPDD activities. As presently conceptualized, these groups focus on racial/ethnic minorities, but from time to time the Board of Directors may broaden, narrow, or otherwise alter this focus. The URPOP Committee advises the Board of Directors on strategies for promoting increased representation of these groups on committees, in the organization, and in attendance at the annual meeting.

Committee Members: Maintains a listserv (mailto: cpdd-urpop@venus.vcu.edu) posting information of relevance to the Committee's charge. The listserv reaches beyond the membership of the Committee to members and attendees at the annual meeting who are interested in the involvement of underrepresented groups in CPDD activities.

Evaluates the Status of Minority Involvement in CPDD: Encourages participation and involvement of underrepresented groups in CPDD activities. Examples of such activities include organizing a related symposium or workshop at the Annual Meeting, proposing the establishment of a travel award relevant to the Committees' charge, and encouraging greater CPDD membership among underrepresented groups

The Committee meets annually at the CPDD meeting. During the year, business is usually transacted by e-mail or telephone. A conference call may be used if warranted. To stay abreast of developments in the arena, the Chair brings matters to the attention of the Committee members, and if appropriate, the Committee formulates a plan of action which it communicates to the President and Executive Officer. Frequently, the action will entail distribution of a message to the CPDD membership via the URPOP listserv regarding important items relating to the Committee's charge.