Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

An Introduction

At Goshen College, our diversity is essential to our academic excellence and vibrant community.

As we teach, learn and seek truth together, our diversity invites us to see in new ways, to recognize new problems, to imagine new solutions, to realize our strengths and to claim justice.

How we define diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI)

Diversity

Diversity encompasses how people are both different and similar. It includes many intersecting dimensions, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, language, culture, beliefs, neurodiversity, physical ability, socio-economic status, immigration status, and more.

Equity

Equity means reducing disparities in opportunities, experiences, and outcomes for all members of the college community. It addresses historical and current social bias and exclusion, including how social structures and policies disadvantage some groups while benefiting others.

Inclusion

Inclusion means fostering a campus environment where people feel respected, accepted, and connected. It ensures that community members engage authentically and participate in the ongoing evolution of campus life.


Note: The above are “working definitions” — our work is happening in this context and our work will also evolve these definitions. The definitions draw upon these sources:

Diversity Toolkit Introduction, National Education Association (accessed July 25, 2018)
Museus & Jayakumar, eds, Creating Campus Cultures, pp 12-17; Routledge, 2012
Ginsberg & Wlodkowski, Diversity & Motivation, 2nd Ed, Chapter 2; Jossey Bass, 2009
“Qualitative Inquiry for Equity in Higher Education.” ASHE Report on Higher Education 2012.

Meet the Committee on DEI

Cyneatha Millsaps

Chair
Executive Director of the Center for Community Engagement and DEI

Jody Saylor

Director of Faculty Development & Academic Innovation

Erica Albertin

DEI Officer
Associate Director for Athletic Health & Wellness

Adela Hufford

DEI Officer
Director of Orientation Transition & Retention

Marlene Penner

DEI Officer
HR Director

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