Statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusive Excellence

The Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications proudly recognizes that humanity is comprised of a wide array of people with storied experiences, complex backgrounds and unique identities. We believe that equitable access to media and communication technologies and media is essential and indicative of a healthy society and democracy. Everyone has a voice and the right to be heard and acquire accurate and necessary information.

Communication professionals must reflect the diversity and complexity of humanity and constantly seek to understand the complexities of all people, perspectives and beliefs as members of our global society. We are committed to equity and inclusion within our programs and among our faculty, staff and students. We strive for inclusive excellence in media and communication technologies through our teaching, research and service.

To achieve this goal:

We will maintain an environment of respect and inclusion for faculty, staff, students and members of the communities we serve;
We will foster an environment that supports the expression of diverse points of view.
We will provide curricula, programs and environments to students, faculty and staff that reflect the diversity of our communities, promote multicultural awareness and challenge oppression;
We will ensure equitable access to our facilities, programs, resources and services, and that our policies and practices reinforce our values;
We will design our hiring and promotion practices and review procedures to attract, retain and develop diverse talented faculty and staff; and
We will address and remedy disparities in areas such as representation, retention, learning outcomes and graduation rates.

(Updated Fall 2022)