What is Diversity?
Diversity is unique in that individuals define it differently. Some helpful definitions are:
- “Any collective mixture characterized by differences, similarities, and related
tensions and complexities.”
- The condition of having or being composed of differing elements: variety; especially: the inclusion of different types of people (as people of different races or cultures)
in a group or organization.
- A collection of individuals with different experiences, viewpoints, backgrounds, and
life experiences.
- The open embrace of people with different ethnic, racial, socio-economic, religious,
and gender backgrounds.
Diversity is important because:
- A University that fosters a diverse working and learning environment provides the
most enriching educational environment for its students.
- Diversity allows faculty, staff and students to better teach and learn from each
other.
- Understanding individuals who are different than you is key in establishing and
maintaining good peer relationships.
- Diversity helps us in evaluating people based on their individual character, abilities,
beliefs, work ethic, etc. instead of preconceived biases.
What is Inclusion?
When staff, faculty, and students feel included, they are more prone to be engaged in achieving the goals of their Department, Office, College, etc.
An environment that engages everyone is more productive and creative.
Inclusion helps us all to become more conscious and sensitive students and employees.
Diversity and Inclusion Committee