About
The primary function of the Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) is to foster a sense of belonging in an inclusive community where all may reach their full potential.
We recognize that the inequities and patterns of discrimination many members of our society face are not going away. How our educational system is structured, coupled with how our society acknowledges and rewards achievement, favors those who have access to certain resources and opportunities that are not available to everyone. Equity gaps, as illustrated by graduation rates across different student populations, show that we still have much work to do to ensure people from all backgrounds feel welcome and included, and that they can be successful. The university is committed to recognizing these inequities and doing what we can to eliminate systems and processes that perpetuate disparities.
Our team is committed to improving teaching and learning, facilitating data-informed decision-making, and building strong internal and external partnerships. We lead initiatives that empower people to take actions that result in culture change and the removal of barriers to student and employee success. Members of the DEI team play an important role in outreach, recruitment, retention and student success through coordinated efforts within the division, strategic partnerships across campus and with external communities.
Mission & Vision
The Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion’s mission is to facilitate the university’s efforts to advance diversity, equity and inclusion, and to foster a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community through education, advocacy and support.
We envision UWM as an institution that is fully and intentionally diverse, equitable and inclusive for all its stakeholders and in service to the community.
UWM celebrates, values and promotes the diverse voices and experiences of its students and employees and our community partners. We believe diversity enriches and strengthens our institution. UWM is committed to providing equitable access to opportunities for students and employees from every background. We aspire to create a campus climate that is welcoming to all.
Framework
We value diversity in all of its definitions, including who we are, how we think and what we do.
Student Success
All students have access to equitable resources and experiences to help them thrive.
Diverse Talent
Innovative strategies are implemented to recruit, develop, retain and promote employees with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Climate & Culture
Everyone is responsible for helping to build an inclusive campus community where everyone is valued and has a sense of belonging.
Community Impact
As an integral part of the local and global communities, the university is responsible for co-creating a shared, equitable future on campus and beyond.
Diversity
Individual differences (e.g., personality, learning styles and life experiences) and group/social differences (e.g., race/ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, country of origin and ability, as well as cultural, political, religious, linguistic or other affiliations)
Equity
The deliberate and intentional crafting of solutions that center the voices and meet the needs of different groups based on their histories and access to resources that will lead to the outcome of fairness
Inclusion
The active, intentional and continuous process to address inequities in power and privilege and build a respectful and diverse community that ensures welcoming spaces and opportunities for all to flourish.