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YOU CAN BE YOU AT VU

LEADING WITH OUR VALUES AND BELIEFS TO ENSURE THAT EVERY COMMODORE CAN BRING THEIR AUTHENTIC SELF TO WORK. 

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At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the university in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.   

Block Quotes

“Universities such as ours exist because of an unshakable belief in human potential. We must do whatever it takes to create an environment in which all members of our community can thrive and contribute to their full potential.”

–Chancellor Daniel Diermeier

Equality & Equity

The terms equality and equity are often used interchangeably; however, they differ in significant ways.  Equality denotes how people are treated and focuses on making sure everyone gets the same opportunities. But  Equity , on the other hand, ensures that each person receives what [the person] needs to thrive.  Vanderbilt University is intentional about eliminating barriers that have prevented full participation and increased access to resources and networks for underrepresented groups across our student, faculty, and staff populations. 

Diversity

Our people are our greatest asset, and we support our efforts with respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of every person. We seek and cultivate diverse populations and perspectives and promote equity and inclusion. We see this uniqueness shaped by race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, and other life experiences and ideologies.

Inclusion

We believe that every person at Vanderbilt should feel as though they belong here. We want our people to feel welcome and valued and are free to express themselves – and not only respected for it but celebrated. We are learning how to involve more unique perspectives and actively invite participation from historically underrepresented groups to make our community a better place for all. 

 Equality, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion guide our values and serve as our foundation. Together we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our staff, faculty, and students.