Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility at Syracuse University
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion advances diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) at Syracuse University. We envision a campus where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
What is DEIA?
Diversity
Diversity is the various backgrounds, lived experiences, values, and worldviews that stem from differences in culture and circumstance. This includes, but isn’t limited to race, ethnicity, gender and gender expression, age, religion, language, (dis)ability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and geographic region. (Source: nadohe.org)
Equity
Equity is the active process of identifying and eliminating or reducing the structural barriers related to marginalized identities that limit access or prevent full participation in our institution.
Inclusion
Inclusion is the intentional act of including difference and creating environments where any individual or group is welcomed, respected, supported, valued, and given the opportunity to fully participate.
Accessibility
Accessibility is the practice of identifying and removing physical, sensory, attitudinal and other barriers that would limit someone from independently entering into or using spaces, meaningfully accessing all information, fully participating in programs and benefiting from services.
A Rich, Complex History of Inclusion
Syracuse University was founded on the principle of inclusivity when it opened its doors to both men and women—a rare occurrence in the 1870s. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion coupled with our responses to the voices of students, faculty, and staff have resulted in a continuous advancement of DEIA, particularly in the face of adversity.
Disability Access
Syracuse University was the first institution in the nation to offer a disability studies program.
Commitment to the Haudenosaunee
The Haudenosaunee flag waves high around campus and we show reverence to its Confederacy by reciting the land acknowledgment statement at the onset of campus events.
Best Place for Vets
The National Veterans Resource Center is renowned across the country for making Syracuse University the best place for veterans and military-connected families.
Campus Voices
Student, faculty, and staff voices have given rise to a host of DEIA initiatives on campus including but not limited to the establishment of the Barner-McDuffie House, the hiring of the Honwadiyenawa’sek “One Who Helps Them,” and increased transparency regarding bias incidents. Learn more about other DEIA initiatives on campus.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Landscape
DEIA is advanced across campus in a variety of ways by a multitude of people, departments, and initiatives:
Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) Staff
The ODI team supports students, faculty, and staff to assist them in advancing DEIA in their respective areas of focus.
Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI)
OSI leads the DEIA efforts for faculty members.
Councils and Committees
Our councils and committees serve the Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion in advisory capacity.
Academic Strategic Plan (ASP)
Leading the academic work of campus, the Academic Strategic Plan embeds diversity equity, inclusion, and accessibility in its areas of distinction, goals and commitments.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Plan
This five-year plan provides a framework for DEIA work across campus.
Campus Wide Resources
DEIA efforts occur throughout campus.
Below are some examples.
Cultural
Disability
Bias and Discrimination
- Report a Bias Incident
- Office of Equal Opportunity, Inclusion and Resolution Services
- Bias Incident Investigation Tracker
- Bias Education
Inclusion
- Conversations About Race and Ethnicity (C.A.R.E.)
- Office of the University Ombuds
- Living Learning Communities
- Staff Flexible Work Arrangements
Support diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility
Want to support diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility work at Syracuse University? Give to the DEIA Fund today.