Today marks an important milestone in our institutional journey. As a university, we continue to reimagine excellence. We are pleased to share with you today that the University Board of Regents approved a revision of the 1990 Diversity Statement. The new statement of commitment was revised by the Presidential Steering Committee on Inclusive Excellence after input from and conversation with a wide array of the University community. Thank you to the members of the Steering Committee for their work and all who contributed to this important statement of commitment.
The original statement from 1990 represented a significant commitment to diversity during its time. However, our understanding of what creates truly inclusive educational environments has evolved considerably. This revision is not about replacing our foundational values but expanding and enriching them to meet the needs of our current campus culture and future community members.
Our recent organizational change also reflects this commitment to growth. As of July 1, 2024, we transitioned from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to the Office of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging. This transformation embodies our unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant campus community where every student, staff member, and faculty colleague feels deeply rooted, empowered to flourish, and inspired to achieve their highest potential. In the coming weeks, the Presidential Steering Committee will continue to work on how the statement will be operationalized and embedded in our community.
I invite you to read the revised statement below thoughtfully. See it not as a departure from our traditions but as a recommitment to our core values in language that speaks to who we are today and who we aspire to be tomorrow, an institution of excellence.
This revised statement:
- Aligns with our critical few objectives for student success and institutional excellence
- Acknowledges the broader spectrum of representation and experiences that enrich our campus
- Articulates more clearly our commitment to equitable access and opportunity
- Provides a stronger framework for accountability in our efforts
- Aligns with and reinforces our Mission, Values, and Civility Statements
In light of the current national climate surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in higher education, it is more important than ever that we clearly articulate and stand firmly behind our values. Our Respect Campaign is one meaningful way we highlight these values across campus, fostering a community where differences are tolerated and celebrated as essential to academic excellence and personal growth.
Excellence at the University of Hartford has always been defined by our ability to adapt while holding firm to our mission of transformative education. This revised statement represents that balance—honoring our history while moving boldly toward a future where every member of our community can thrive.
I look forward to engaging with you as we embrace this vision together.
With respect and optimism,
Office of Inclusive Excellence & Belonging
President’s Steering Committee on Inclusive Excellence
UNIVERSITY COMMITMENT TO INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE STATEMENT
As an institution of higher learning, the University of Hartford strives to be more than merely a mirror of the larger society; it should foster learning and encourage the personal growth of students, faculty, and staff in an environment that promotes and celebrates diversity in all of its forms regardless of identifying factors including but not limited to race, sex, age, religion, national origin, socioeconomic status, physical and learning differences, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity.
Accordingly, our commitment is to:
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Foster an inclusive, equitable, just, and caring community where the unique identities of each person are fully appreciated, respected, and celebrated
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Engage in civil discourse, that values diverse intellectual perspectives
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Cultivate a campus community reflective of the intersectionality of the larger society while maintaining an environment of safety and respect where all members experience a sense of belonging
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Institutionally, stand against acts of hate, intimidation, discrimination, bigotry, violence, and harassment of any kind
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Uphold the values of the institution, so that all our members are treated with dignity and respect
Our commitment to Inclusive Excellence and Belonging is a strength that results in a vibrant and more engaged campus culture.