Inclusiveness at Southwestern University reflects the manner in which human beings from all backgrounds are welcomed, valued, respected, considered, and supported within our community. Our community includes marginalized (i.e., devalued) and/or minoritized (i.e., underrepresented) including, but not limited to race, ethnicity, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, color, ability/disability, neurodivergence, socio-economic status), religion, and the intersection of these identities and are provided with equal access to opportunities and resources, especially to communities that have been underserved. Specifically, these individuals “as integral and necessary voices” have the opportunity and right to be visible, heard, and, when they deem appropriate and/or necessary, to serve as policy-makers, advocates, and leaders.

Inclusivity includes active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity that should be evident in the curriculum, in the co-curriculum ¹ , and in communities (intellectual, social, cultural, geographical), and should be seen in the classroom, at every administrative level, and within our everyday roles and responsibilities of our faculty and staff, as well. This “living” definition is ever-changing and will continue to be revised, assessed, and adapted as needed.

¹ co-curriculum represents spaces such as the residence halls, athletics, counseling and health, university police, student activities, and Greek life.