University of Michigan

Diversity Statement

Campus Climate

Our diversity is our strength.
Mary Sue Coleman, President, University of Michigan

Mary Sue Coleman's address to the UM community on Diversity Matters at the University of Michigan - November 8th, 2006

WHY DIVERSITY MATTERS

A diverse community may initially be created through the simple presence of diverse individuals, but it can only be sustained when that diversity is welcomed, recognized, and explored in a manner that respects and enhances the experiences of all involved. At the University of Michigan, we are committed to the complex and ever-changing process of creating a climate in which these benefits of diversity are realized and in which we confront and minimize the effects of tokenism, stereotyping, exclusion, and ignorance that are the social legacy too often associated with our differences. This commitment has three facets:

• a willingness to examine the facts and figures that describe the make-up of our students, faculty, and staff. Do these statistics indicate patterns of exclusion either in entry to the university or in experiences on campus?
• a commitment to listening to the voices of our community. What do they tell us about actions or awareness that we need to develop?
• an investment in classes, policies, programs, and events that promote the knowledge, skills, and awareness that we need to learn about and across our differences.

http://www.diversity.umich.edu/

Content modified: November, 2006

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