The part you really care about…
Foster diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging
This goal is focused on advancing DEIB across Penn State’s campuses so faculty, staff and students can fully realize their potential in an environment of inclusive excellence.
The goal group’s information-gathering aligned with Bendapudi’s DEIB goals to establish baseline metrics for DEIB; increase recruitment of underrepresented students, faculty and staff; close gaps in graduation rates across backgrounds and identities; enable robust and supportive communities; and create equitableprofessional development and advancement opportunities for staff. While Penn State is in an average position compared to its key peers in several markers, there is a need within higher education to advance DEIB on campuses through enhanced resources and purposeful action.
The goal group identified enablers and barriers, which include a need for a University-wide strategy with defined goals and accountability; increased financial aid for underrepresented students; additional investments in academic advising to support students of all identities; a process to examine policies, procedures and practices that can address systemic barriers; and enhancement of mentorship, professional development and promotion opportunities for faculty. When considering professional development for staff efforts, the University should consider how to align the current infrastructure of initiatives led and resourced by individual units; how to use current tools that may be underutilized; and how to develop University-level policies that provide guidelines for participation.
This work was led by Marcus Whitehurst, vice provost for Educational Equity, and co-led by Pat Kraft, vice president for Intercollegiate Athletics, and Jennifer Wilkes, vice president for Human Resources.
