2023 Equity & Inclusion Colleges of Distinction
Every student deserves access to an education that allows them to develop as fully realized versions of themselves. Historically reserved for the upper-class, white, able-bodied majority, colleges and universities are only able to serve underrepresented populations when they take active steps to diversify its students and faculty. It is our honor, therefore, to highlight already recognized Colleges of Distinction that provide noteworthy support to underserved students who might not otherwise study and thrive on a college campus. Schools bearing an Equity & Inclusion badge exceed expectations from a student’s recruitment, throughout school, and beyond the completion of their degree.
Institutions awarded an Equity & Inclusion badge not only enliven their curriculum with high-impact practices, but they also make these practices accessible in a welcoming community. Beyond diversity, these schools pursue equity by catering to the unique needs of their students regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, gender, or ability.
These 2023-2024 Equity & Inclusion Colleges of Distinction have all been vetted and recognized for their commitment to creating an inclusive environment with a keen awareness of different students’ needs, helping them graduate as empowered changemakers for a more equitable world.
Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
University of Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology
Hawaii
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
University of Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
University of Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
West Virginia University
Wisconsin
Why It’s Important
We at Colleges of Distinction have always believed in the power of education. It is from colleges and universities that we exchange ideas, make new discoveries and innovations, and build the skills for leadership positions across all sectors. And yet, it’s no secret that higher education is disproportionately run and attended by a privileged majority. If education is the hallmark of change, shouldn’t our future changemakers reflect our nation’s diverse experiences, backgrounds, and values?
Overwhelmingly, the systems we have in place inhibit people from underrepresented populations to pursue a degree. Opportunity is not truly equal, so colleges and universities must bridge the gap in order to be accessible to all. We need our institutions not only to accept, but to accommodate the unique needs of students of color, first-generation college students, disabled students, queer students, and students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds. After all, a diverse college campus is not sustainable if it does not provide equitable support to its historically underserved students.
When we embrace difference, we expand our limitations. When we listen to the voices of the silenced, we can improve our society as a whole. And when we achieve equity, we enable everyone to choose their own path and realize their dreams.
Nominate for Consideration
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