Office for Diversity and Equity
Welcome to the Office for Diversity and Equity! Access the Office for Diversity and Equity 2021-2022 Newsletter!
At Shepherd University, we are committed to a vision of leadership in diversity and equity that cultivates inclusiveness and mutual respect. The Office for Diversity and Equity assists and monitors all units of the University in the development of institutional policies and protocols intended to create a more representative, equitable, and inclusive Shepherd. We embrace diversity and equity as pillars of excellence and are working to synergize related activities at all levels of the institution. We also reach beyond the University to establish beneficial relationships with individual and institutional partners who share mutual goals and interests.
The office is led by Dr. Chiquita Howard-Bostic, Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity, and she can be reached by phone at 304-876-5056 or by email (chowardb@shepherd.edu). The office is located at 123 on the first floor of Gardiner Hall.
Diversity at Shepherd is addressing issues of access and climate for individuals who might encounter barriers for a variety of personal experiences, values, and world-views that arise from race, ethnicity, gender identities and expressions, sexual orientation, age, religion, language, abilities, veteran status, citizen status, socioeconomic status, nationality, and more. Shepherd will commit to expressing and increasing diversity in myriad forms.
Equity at Shepherd is commitment and accountability for identifying and eliminating barriers that reinforce inequalities and privileges generated by historical and persistent intersecting differences. We will provide fair treatment, access, learning opportunities, and advancement for all students, faculty, and staff in every stage of Shepherd’s education and career development. Shepherd will commit to working actively to challenge and respond to bias, harassment, and discrimination in programs, policies, and practices.
Inclusivity at Shepherd is generating respect and shared dignity in learning, working, living, and social environments where any individual or group can grow intellectually, participate inclusively and feel welcome, respected, supported, and valued by sharing their words and actions. Shepherd will commit to pursuing deliberate efforts to ensure that our campus is a place where differences are welcomed and included.