Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
An integral component of sustainability is the ability to embrace diverse communities and the unique voices they support — with increasing challenges related to climate change, resource scarcity and population growth, it is more important than ever that we work together to create a more resilient world. Luckily, as a leading research institution with students, faculty and staff from more than 125 countries, Iowa State is uniquely positioned to create opportunities that simultaneously support inclusivity, as well as build innovative solutions to the global problems that affect us all.
As one of the newest administrative entities on campus, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion offers programs, resources and other tools that develop “an environment of inclusiveness that empowers faculty, staff and students to achieve their highest potential and have a clearer understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion and educational justice.” This mission is achieved by building partnerships on campus and in the community, providing support in the form of education and outreach, as well as offering guidance in resolving interpersonal challenges. However, perhaps of greatest importance is the goal of educational justice, which establishes policies and procedures that address systematic problems and conditions that cause educational barriers to arise in the first place.
The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’s initiatives include co-sponsoring “Talk RACE” at the Ames Public Library, creating a new employment opportunity to increase on-campus accessibility for individuals with disabilities, as well as forming workforce development programs with Barilla, U.S Bank, Workiva and other area businesses. For more information, contact vpdioffice@iastate.edu.
"When you're talking about diversity, equity and inclusion, the experiences of students, faculty and staff don't happen in isolation. It's not like you just come to school or work and then leave. You live in a community and that community is as functional a part of your life as the workplace."
-Dr. Reginald Stewart, Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (2015-2021)