The Anthropology Department became an autonomous unit in the 2000-2001
academic year after separating from the Sociology Department in the
summer of 2000. At that time, the unit had four tenure track faculty
members and 48 majors. As of April 2016, we have 120 majors and 61
minors, 9 tenure-track or tenured faculty members, one affiliate faculty
member, two visiting positions and part-time faculty as needed. We have
a part-time supervisor for the Anthropology Lab. We offer labs dedicated
to archaeological, biological and ethnographic research. A four-field
anthropology department emphasizing work across a range of
subdisciplines (archaeology, biological anthropology, linguistic
anthropology, cultural anthropology, medical anthropology), we train our
students in both theoretical and applied approaches, preparing them to
understand humankind holistically, within a historical context, and with
cultural relativism. Our strategic plan for 2016-21 is focused on
explaining what we prioritize for our faculty, students and program and
on developing the benefits our department holds for all involved.
Mission
Anthropology is at the core of liberal education, bridging several
disciplines across the humanities, natural and social sciences,
emphasizing critical thinking and an appreciation for the value of
inclusivity. Our approach, which integrates bio-cultural, evolutionary,
applied and comparative perspectives, allows us to train our students to
examine humanity holistically, and provides them with the skills needed
to become active participants in diverse communities.
Vision
The Anthropology department will set a standard of excellence in liberal
education that incorporates a strong theoretical foundation (including
biological, cultural, medical, comparative and material studies), an
applied specialty that emphasizes the practical and problem-solving
aspects of anthropology, and a strong commitment to community engagement
throughout our scholarship, teaching and service. This approach,
emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusivity, strives to
broaden our students experiences, expand their knowledge base and
prepare them for meaningful careers in a dynamic society.
Value Statement
Anthropology values: 1. Excellent teaching of students through
appropriate sized classes, field studies, and community engaged learning
opportunities. 2. Inclusivity, an appreciation of human diversity, and
respect for all cultures. ( 3. Interdisciplinary initiatives with other
departments, colleges, learning institutions, and organizations 4.
Faculty scholarship that enhances our teaching. ( 5. Student engagement
in scholarship, anthropological practice, skill development, and
academic/community life. 6. The innovative application of
anthropological knowledge to our surrounding communities- the
university, the region, our professions, and the global community at
large.
Strategic Priorities, outcomes, and key objectives
Strategic Priority Area 1: Actively engage learners at all levels.
Outcome A: Grand Valley's learning environment is personal, challenging, and transformational, supporting excellent academic programs and co-curricular opportunities.
Outcome B: Grand Valley is diverse and inclusive.
Outcome C: Grand Valley has mutually beneficial relationships, partnerships, collaborations, and connections with local, state, national, and world communities.
Outcome D: Grand Valley supports innovative teaching, learning, integrative scholarly and creative activity, and the use of new technologies.
Strategic Priority Area 2: Further develop exceptional personnel.
Outcome D: Grand Valley supports innovative teaching, learning, integrative scholarly and creative activity, and the use of new technologies.
Strategic Priority Area 3: Ensure the alignment of institutional structures and functions.
Outcome C: Grand Valley has mutually beneficial relationships, partnerships, collaborations, and connections with local, state, national, and world communities.
Strategic Priority Area 4: Enhance the institution's image and reputation.
Outcome A: Grand Valley's learning environment is personal, challenging, and transformational, supporting excellent academic programs and co-curricular opportunities.
Outcome C: Grand Valley has mutually beneficial relationships, partnerships, collaborations, and connections with local, state, national, and world communities.
