Integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into your fall syllabi
Fall is almost here! It’s a great time to update the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statements in your syllabi. Research suggests that placing DEI statements early in a syllabus helps students better understand their importance in your classroom.
Here are a few sample statements we’ve received from College of Education faculty you can include in your syllabi to create a climate of diversity, equity, and inclusion in your course. There are also a few links below that include sample statements from other universities with various foci (e.g., land acknowledgements, respect for DEI):
Broad DEI statements
“UGA is committed to creating a dynamic, diverse, and welcoming learning environment for all students and has a non-discrimination policy that reflects this philosophy. Our class will respect all students regardless of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment and pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity or national origin, religion, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Ideas are open to critique; individuals are not.”
The College of Education is also committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as stated in the 2017-2021 Strategic Plan:
- Goal 1: Promote diversity, equity and inclusion for all people.
- Objective 1.1: Develop and implement strategies to ensure a climate of respect and dignity within the College.
- Objective 1.2: Integrate attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the scholarship, teaching, and outreach activities of the College."
Student food and housing insecurity
“Any student who faces challenges securing their food or housing and believes this may affect their performance in the course is urged to contact UGA Student Care and Outreach for support. Furthermore, please notify me as the professor if you are comfortable in doing so. This will enable me to provide resources in the College and University.” (This is adapted slightly from Sarah Goldrick-Rab)
Disability statement
“I am committed to making sure my course and materials are affirming of students living with disabilities. If you plan to request accommodations for a disability, please register with the Disability Resource Center. They can be reached by visiting Clark Howell Hall, calling 706-542-8719 (voice) or 706-542-8778 (TTY), or by visiting the Disability Resource Center.”
More resources: