Dear Vanderbilt community,
It is an honor to share this year’s annual report of equity, diversity and inclusion efforts across the Vanderbilt enterprise. The 2021–22 academic year was one of resilience and reemerging, as our community experienced the slow return to a life that felt more normal and unrestricted, despite still dealing with many of the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Last year, we saw the fruits of many efforts aimed at deepening and augmenting our collective efforts. We are now a year into the merger of the Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and the provost’s Office for Inclusive Excellence, as well as the repositioning of our identity centers within the Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion—a deliberate move to broaden and strengthen our resources. We also welcomed our newly appointed Associate Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Belinda 'Otukolo Saltiban, who has been working diligently with each vice chancellor and dean, as well as numerous campus leaders and partners, on building individual strategic plans, as well as an institutional EDI plan for the entire university.
This report reflects highlights of the collective efforts of the Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and a campus community united behind the cause of fostering a more equitable, diverse and inclusive environment where all can bring their authentic selves and find a true sense of belonging at Vanderbilt. We know this work will never be “completed.” Instead, we celebrate our incredible strides and forge ahead to greater heights and excellence. The continued development and articulation of our divisional and institutional plans galvanizes us and offers the opportunity to harness the momentum we have achieved so that we can accomplish even more. Building a truly inclusive Vanderbilt is the work of every Commodore—student, faculty, staff, postdoc, alum—and I am honored and grateful to be part of these transformative efforts alongside each of you.
Sincerely,
Dr. André L. Churchwell
Vice Chancellor for Outreach, Inclusion and Belonging and Chief Diversity Officer
OFFICE FOR EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
WHO WE ARE
In summer 2021, The provost’s Office for Inclusive Excellence merged with the Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in a move to broaden and deepen Vanderbilt’s resources for fostering a welcoming and supportive culture. As part of the new structure, Vanderbilt’s four identity centers—the Bishop Joseph Johnson Black Cultural Center; the Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center; the Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex Life; and the Center for Spiritual and Religious Life—also joined the Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
The Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion works to make Vanderbilt University an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are inseparable from institutional excellence and to model intentional practices that respect the humanity of all.
OUR MISSION
To promote environments that are affirming, welcoming, equitable, inclusive and diverse to foster a sense of belonging at Vanderbilt and beyond, with the goal of advancing human potential and growth.
To move our mission forward, we endeavor to:
- Dismantle systemic barriers for marginalized and underserved populations so that they can thrive.
- Champion equity, diversity and inclusion in academic and scholarly activities by cultivating opportunities for collaboration and community across the university.
- Provide educational resources, programming, outreach and learning opportunities that promote access and equity.
- Foster living, learning and working conditions that empower physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
- Align our mission and actions through meaningful accountability measures and data to ensure progress on goals related to equity, diversity and inclusion.
OUR VISION
To make Vanderbilt University an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are inseparable from institutional excellence and to model intentional practices that respect the humanity of all. We also aim to honor the uniqueness and resilience of each individual while working to create a transformative community that respects, values and supports all people.
COMMITMENTS
We are committed to:
- Holding ourselves and each other accountable.
- Promoting a growth mindset.
- Forging partnerships and strengthening community.
- Embracing our individual and collective diversity.
- Advocating for a human-centered approach.