Universities Canada Inclusive Excellence Principles

The University of Lethbridge is committed to building a campus that is accessible and welcoming to all. We strive to embed the seven Universities Canada Inclusive Excellence Principles into our approaches to teaching, research and community engagement.

Principle 1.

We believe our universities are enriched by diversity and inclusion. As leaders of universities that aspire to be diverse, fair and open, we will make our personal commitment to diversity and inclusion evident.

Principle 2.

We commit our institutions to developing and/or maintaining an equity, diversity and inclusion action plan in consultation with students, faculty, staff and administrators, and particularly with individuals from under-represented groups^[1]. We commit to demonstrating progress over time.

Principle 3.

We commit to taking action to provide equity of access and opportunity. To do so, we will identify and address barriers to, and provide supports for, the recruitment and retention of senior university leaders, university Board and Senate members, faculty, staff and students, particularly from under-represented groups.

Principle 4.

We will work with our faculty and staff, search firms, and our governing boards to ensure that candidates from all backgrounds are provided support in their career progress and success in senior leadership positions at our institutions.

Principle 5.

We will seek ways to integrate inclusive excellence throughout our university’s teaching, research, community engagement and governance. In doing so, we will engage with students, faculty, staff, our boards of governors, senates and alumni to raise awareness and encourage all efforts.

Principle 6.

We will be guided in our efforts by evidence, including evidence of what works in addressing any barriers and obstacles that may discourage members of under-represented groups to advance. We commit to sharing evidence of practices that are working, in Canada and abroad, with higher education institutions.

Principle 7.

Through our national membership organization, Universities Canada, we will work to generate greater awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusive excellence throughout Canadian higher education.

[1] Under-represented groups include those identified in the Federal Employment Equity Act – women, visible minorities, Aboriginal peoples, and persons with disabilities – as well as, but not limited to, LGBTQ2S+ people and men in female-dominated disciplines.

Past President and Vice-Chancellor Mike Mahon, and former chair of Universities Canada, explains the need for universities to commit to equity, diversity and inclusion on campus in order to foster environments that support all students, faculty and staff.