Diversity, Equity, and InclusionPresident’s Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Definition of Terms:
Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ, and it encompasses all the characteristics and identities that make individuals and groups unique. It is all-inclusive and recognizes everyone and every group as part of the diversity that should be valued. A broad definition includes not only race, ethnicity, and gender — the groups that most often come to mind when the term “diversity” is used — but also age, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, marital and parental status, language, and physical appearance. It also encompasses different ideas, values, perspectives, and backgrounds.
Equity recognizes that historically underserved and underrepresented populations experience unjust and exclusionary conditions that require rectification in order to provide balanced opportunities to all groups and for all people.
We seek to provide equitable access, opportunity, and advancement for all students and employees while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some individuals and groups.
Inclusion is the act of creating, supporting, and sustaining environments in which all individuals are accepted, respected, supported, and valued. An inclusive community recognizes differences, emphasizes respect, and embraces opportunities for change and growth.
Gustavus Adolphus College aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. We examine and challenge our biases, practices, and structures. We value justice, transformative education, and growth and integrate these ideals into our academic mission, our policies and practices, and the way we live in community.