Office of Diversity and Inclusion at Syracuse University
Welcome to the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) at Syracuse University. Established in 2018 in response to student voices, ODI advances diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility across campus.
Office of Diversity and Inclusion Leadership
Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion Mary Grace Almandrez (pictured on the right) leads the work of ODI. As a member of the Chancellor’s executive team, Dr. Almandrez works closely with University leaders and campus partners to advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility as an outcome of the five-year DEIA strategic plan.
Why DEIA?
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) has come under the spotlight with states and courts across the nation targeting efforts, programs and offices that diversity college campuses. Syracuse University remains committed to DEIA due to the below:
Enhanced Quality
Diverse classrooms, faculty, curriculum and staff increase the impact and scope of research, pedagogy, scholarship and campus experience.
Disability Focus
Syracuse University is one of the few campuses that highlight accessibility separately – the “A” in DEIA. This is symbolic of our commitment to ensuring people who are disabled have full access to campus.
Campus Expectation
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion was established in 2018 as a result of student, faculty and staff demand.
Mission and Vision Statements
Mission Statement
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion advances diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility for students, staff and faculty across Syracuse University by fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, facilitating educational opportunities, developing and curating resources, removing barriers, and influencing University policy.
We are thought leaders who conduct our work boldly and are undeterred in our pursuit to create a culture of inclusive excellence where all are welcomed, valued and feel that they belong.
Vision Statement
We seek to cultivate an environment where all members, in all places, have access to equitable resources, supports and experiences to thrive at Syracuse University, within their communities, and within the greater, global society.
Core Values
Accessibility
We identify and remove 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.
Authenticity
We bring truth to our purpose through transparency and continual alignment with our values, ideals and actions.
Belonging
We create an environment at Syracuse University where people are affirmed and where they can thrive.
Collaboration
We cross boundaries for the purpose of binding different strengths together, building and reinforcing support networks, and to empower future partners.
Equity
In seeking to remedy past, and present, injustices, we provide services and support to campus members with a desired outcome of experience that are fair to all to position individuals for achieving success.
Love
It is love that allows us to recognize the dignity and humanity of each individual, to extend them mutual respect, and to support them with compassion and care.
Service
All that we do, including caring for ourselves, is for others.
ODI Areas of Focus
Communications
Exchange information and promote DEIA work that benefits staff, faculty, students, alumni and the local community.
Disability Access
Advance the full inclusion of, and accessibility for, students, faculty, staff and visitors with disabilities in all campus classrooms, workspaces and event venues.
Inclusion and Belonging
Purposefully engage with campus members to enhance a sense of community and connection for all.
Learning and Development
Enhance professional development through the facilitation of DEIA education.
Research and Assessment
Measure and evaluate the impact of DEIA work across campus.
Do you have questions?
Contact the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.
Have you Experienced Bias?
Please report your experience to the Syracuse University STOP Bias and Hate team.