Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility
How do we define DEIA at UArts?
Diversity: Individual differences, such as personality, learning styles, life experiences and group or social differences, including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, ability, and cultural, political, religious or other affiliations
Equity: The creation of opportunities for historically underrepresented populations to have equal access to educational programs and professional opportunities; closing the achievement gaps in student success and completion, as well as professional advancement for employees
Inclusion: The active, intentional and ongoing engagement with diversity to increase one’s awareness, knowledge and empathic understanding of the complex ways individuals interact within systems and institutions; building community; providing a voice to all members of the community
Accessibility: Equitable access under law, as well as the application of a socially-inclusive, universal design mindset in all areas of the digital, learning, and built environments. The commitment to accessibility recognizes that a neuro-diverse community of learners enhances our academic culture and strengthens our strategic mission.
DEIA Executive Board:
Stephen Cirino, Interim Director of DEI and DEIA Chair
Kelly Deasy, Vice-Chair
Yasmine El Gheur, Coordinator
Diversity Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Fellows
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Fellowship furthers the University's mission to empower students to play a meaningful and leading role in institutional anti-racism and diversity and inclusion work.
Black Lives Matter at UArts
Right now, so many in our community are eager to take action. The DEI Task Force has compiled a list of resources and information for students, faculty, and staff below.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Committee
The Diversity Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Task Force was formed in the Fall of 2018, and became a full committee in 2020. For UArts community members who would like to learn more about the mission, composition, and work of the DEIA Committee, click "learn more" to be directed to the Portal.
Accessibility
The University supports the ability of all community members to succeed creatively, educationally, and professionally, by removing barriers and promoting access in all University programs, activities, and facilities. We provide reasonable disability accommodations to students, employees, and campus guests to ensure equal access and participation. Click "learn more" to access the Office of Educational Accessibility's page.
LGBTQ+ Resources
The University of the Arts is committed to providing a safe, caring, and supportive environment for the healthy development of all of our community members. We are committed to building and sustaining a campus environment that is safe and affirming for all students, faculty, and staff.
Student Cultural & Religious Groups
Student Clubs & Organizations are a great way for students with similar interests, backgrounds, and identities get together and network, find community, and educate the student body.
Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity
The University prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information, in its programs and activities. The policy on Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity defines prohibited conduct and outlines the process for filing a complaint.
