Diversity and Inclusion

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is hard at work on an Inclusion Plan.  We'd like to share some of the work in progress.

Based on the work of the CLAS GrIT Inclusion Task Force in creating the draft CLAS inclusion plan, the Defining Diversity Subcommittee of the GRIT has defined diversity for the purpose of the work of other GRIT subcommittees as follows:

We recognize that GVSU values, respects, nurtures and pursues diversity in its community.  Diversity may be defined by those characteristics that distinguish individuals within a given community.  These may include, but are not limited to, the following characteristics listed in alphabetical order: age, area of scholarly interest, employment status (faculty, staff), ethnicity, gender, mental and physical capability, nationality, political differences, race, religious differences, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background.

Further, the value we place on diversity is evident in our respect for these differences and the recognition of the similarities that all people share regarding their humanity. 

Inclusion means more than just acknowledging and/or tolerating differences.  Inclusion is the set of conscious practices that involve:

• Practicing mutual respect for qualities and experiences that are different from our own.
• Utilizing the talents of people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives as a means of improving the university environment.
• Building alliances across differences so that we can work together to build vibrant academic community.