Our community members stand in unquestioned support of one another, value inclusion and diversity, and reject hate, bigotry, and discrimination.

Here are some steps we have taken to strengthen LVC.

We support each other, especially in times of need:

• It’s on Us video
• #LVC4change
• Voices of CDR LVC video from students with disabilities

And, we plan to make LVC even stronger in the future. | Envision 2020 strategic plan

Core Principles of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity

As stated by the Association of American Colleges & Universities (AAC&U)

Diversity: Individual differences (e.g., personality, learning styles, and life experiences) and group/social differences (e.g., race/ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, country of origin, and ability as well as cultural, political, religious, or other affiliations).

Inclusion: The active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity—in the curriculum, in the co-curriculum, and in communities (intellectual, social, cultural, geographical) with which individuals might connect—in ways that increase awareness, content knowledge, cognitive sophistication, and empathic understanding of the complex ways individuals interact within systems and institutions.

Equity: The creation of opportunities for historically underrepresented populations to have equal access to and participate in educational programs that are capable of closing the achievement gaps in student success and completion.

Equity-mindedness: A demonstrated awareness of and willingness to address equity issues among institutional leaders and staff (Center for Urban Education, University of Southern California).

The following are outcomes outlined by AAC&U to inform climate and culture change within an institution, division and/or department.

• Create a climate that is supportive, respectful, and values differing perspectives and experiences.
• Demonstrate knowledge of contributions made by individuals from diverse and underrepresented groups to local, national, and global communities.
• Consider perspectives of diverse groups when making decisions.
• Function as members of society and as professionals with people who have ideas, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that are different from your own.