Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

A diverse group of GW students walking together on the National Mall with the Washington Monument in the background

Columbian College is committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for its students, faculty, staff and other members of our community.

Our principles, as established by the university, guide our conduct and decision-making.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council

Our Principles

Students
The university is committed to recruiting, admitting and enrolling undergraduate and graduate students drawn from varying backgrounds or identities throughout all schools and departments.
Faculty and Staff Workforce
The university is committed to recruiting, interviewing and hiring faculty, staff and senior administrators drawn from varying backgrounds and identities throughout all departments and schools.
Board and Council Membership
The university’s governing and advisory bodies reflect the rich diversity of our community and the geographic community in which we reside.
Community Partners
The university shares its commitment to diversity and inclusion with its local, national and international partners and seeks partners that reflect the diversity of our community. Organizations with a proven record of a commitment to diversity and an ongoing demonstration of these values in their governing and employment practices, delivery of products and services and organizational philosophies are given strong consideration in competitive circumstances.
Teaching and Research
Diversity is of vital importance to the university’s intellectual mission. Various perspectives inform GW’s curricular, co-curricular and research endeavors resulting in creative and innovative outcomes and helping attract and retain individuals with diverse backgrounds. In addition, these activities give faculty and students an opportunity to engage in rigorous critical analysis of cultural, ethnic, racial and other related differences.
Inclusion
The university holds its members accountable for sustaining an academic, work and social environment that values open communication, respectful interactions and civility. We have a shared responsibility for the wellbeing of others.

Inclusive Excellence

Kelly Pemberton teaching at the front of a classroom, with content about Islamic mysticism projected behind her

The CCAS Inclusive Excellence Initiative underscores the college’s commitment to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all our faculty, staff and students. The initiative includes new faculty searches aimed at increasing curricular inclusivity and growing the diversity of our ranks.

Inclusive Excellence Initiative