Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity

Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity

Diversity is the cornerstone of excellence. The College of the Liberal Arts strives to increase diversity and fully include members of underrepresented groups among students, staff, and faculty. Diversity in students, staff, and faculty enhances overall creativity, intellectual pursuit and accomplishments, and contributes meaningfully to the training of citizens in a democratic society. The qualities that people from diverse backgrounds bring to institutions of higher education help us think more complexly, consider varied perspectives, create new approaches, and achieve excellence as community members and leaders in an ever-changing world. Within this evolving societal context, the College of the Liberal Arts strives to maintain a leadership role in fostering an equitable, inclusive, and welcoming environment.

Student Recruitment

The College of the Liberal Arts is committed to the recruitment, development, graduation, and placement of outstanding students from diverse backgrounds. Over 25% percent of Liberal Arts graduate students are international, including many from Asia and Africa; and over 17 percent of domestic students are minorities. In addition to substantial financial aid, minority students at Penn State and in the Liberal Arts can count on funding, support services, cultural events, research, and professional development opportunities that they need to reach their goals. The college has its own Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity dedicated to supporting Liberal Arts students.