Race, ethnicity, gender, age, nationality, religion, culture, ability, political and socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and other differences are elements within ongoing national and local conversations on diversity. Diversity includes individuals and groups, in ways of being and knowing, and therefore also involves a variety of perspectives, values, and beliefs. As a Christian university, Eastern is fully committed as a matter of faith, to the task of understanding, loving, and empathizing with all individuals and groups.

Equity refers to fairness and justice for all persons. Pursuit of this end requires not only changes in individual beliefs, but also adjustments to patterns of behavior at group, organizational, and social levels.

At Eastern University, our goal is to establish a campus culture and climate in which every member of the University is able to participate fully in the life of the University and feels a sense of belonging. We believe that positive outcomes will result when our campus climate includes meaningful interactions, rich learning opportunities, and adequate support resources for all students. A primary duty of our University is to create a climate grounded in the principles of diversity, equity, and belonging, reflecting an ethic of justice for all individuals.

Belonging refers to the emotional need for connection and acceptance. Belonging is the natural outgrowth of an environment where an individual’s sense of worth and dignity is acknowledged and accepted. Belonging is the feeling one gets when the message “you are welcomed and valued here” is received and believed. When individuals experience a sense of belonging, they feel safe.

At Eastern University, we believe that belonging is the positive outcome of a community where the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are embodied. We understand that healthy dialogue about ideas, perspectives, and the sharing of resources, and power are essential attributes of communities of belonging. We are committed to doing more than welcoming diverse people into our community; we seek for them to be heard, valued, included, and their lived experiences acknowledged. In short, we seek for “them” to be “us.”

Inclusion is the intentional practice of welcoming diverse groups of people into the life and benefits of a community. Inclusion allows for equal access to opportunities and resources for all, paying particular attention to those who are often excluded or overlooked. When individuals are included, they are welcomed at the table as full and valuable members. The key priorities of diversity, equity, and belonging fully depend on the shared benefits of an inclusive community.

At Eastern University, we are committed to inclusive excellence. We affirm the Association of American Colleges and Universities’ call for inclusive excellence:

“Making excellence inclusive means attending both to the demographic diversity of the student body and also to the need for nurturing climates and cultures so that all students have a chance to succeed. Commitment to student success in these terms requires broad based, compassionate leadership, and equity-minded practice. Making excellence inclusive is a fundamentally democratic ideal. It expresses our confidence in the liberating power of education. Without inclusion, there is no true excellence.” (AAC&U, 2013)

Eastern University seeks to create a culture and climate where all members of the community, including students, staff, faculty, alumni, and Board of Trustees, can participate fully and offer their best contributions to the core values, vision, and mission of the University.