University

The University’s long-standing commitment to diversity remains a priority in its 2005-2010 Strategic Plan as evident by this statement from that document: “In carrying out its mission, Iowa State will increase and support diversity in the university community. Diversity enlivens the exchange of ideas, broadens scholarship, and prepares students for lifelong, productive participation in society.” The range of the commitment to diversity is encapsulated below; subsequent sections of this self-study will elucidate the numerous ways in which this core value is expressed in University programs, initiatives and policies.

The Faculty affirmed the importance of diversity in the curriculum by implementing in 1997 a requirement that each undergraduate student complete coursework or some alterative academic experience in US Diversity and in International Perspectives prior to graduation. The U.S. Diversity requirement focuses on multiculturalism in the U.S.; the International Perspectives requirement inculcates an understanding of global cultural diversity and interdependence. Many students fulfill the latter prerequisite through study abroad. Several programs offer an in-depth study of racial and ethnic diversity, including African American Studies, American Indian Studies, Latino/a Studies, as well as courses in Asian American studies. The Women's Studies and International Studies programs also offer curricula that provide insights into cultural diversity through current awareness and knowledge of diverse perspectives and theoretical frameworks. Many departments also affirm diversity through methodological and pedagogical efforts.

Section 5.2.2.3 of the Faculty promotion and tenure policy highlights the importance of diversity in faculty work, “In carrying out their responsibilities and activities, faculty will support the university’s commitment to diversity by fostering an environment of mutual respect.” The Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity supervises hiring policies, which are premised on a commitment to affirmative action. The University has strong policies on sexual harassment and on racial and ethnic harassment.

Several campus offices have formalized the commitment to diversity through administrative appointments and the formation of key committees and councils. These include the following:

Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Student Services
Office of Multicultural Student Affairs
Women’s Center
Multicultural Vision Program

Vice President for Academic Affairs/Provost

Learning Communities, including several focused on students of color and
on women
University Committee on Women
Women’s Leadership Consortium
Keeping Our Faculties of Color Leadership Team
Program for Women in Science and Engineering
Diversity funds to support hires which diversity the curriculum and the faculty
Funds to support the accommodation of faculty partners.
WISTEM (women in science, technology, engineering, math)
Taskforce on the Recruitment and Retention of Women and Minority Faculty (2002-2003)

President’s Office

Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity
President’s Advisory Committee on Diversity
Climate Study (2003-2005)
Implementation Plan for Diversity, Equity and Community
President’s Conversations on Diversity
University Committee on Disabilities

• Colleges provide liaison to students with a Multicultural Liaison Officer.
Most Colleges have a Diversity Committee and these committees are convened by the Provost’s Office. Diversity is integrated into many curricula across campus.