Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
PA-5: Diversity and Equity Coordination

We have an Educational Equity and Diversity Programs office whose primary function is to support and serve as an advocate for diverse populations of students on campus, particularly historically underrepresented groups (racial/ethic minorities), but also international students, students with disabilities, and students who are Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (GLBT+). The office works on promoting respect for differences and cross-cultural understanding.

In addition, the College has an Institutional Equity and Diversity Committee, which recommends and evaluates strategies and policies related to enhancing diversity and improving the campus climate, with special emphasis on faculty.

The College's Faculty Council and the Student Government Association also have equity and diversity committees to explore and address related matters.

- Mandatory Diversity Session for all new students during arrival week (various topics)
- Equity and Diversity session during New Faculty Orientation (primarily an overview of diversity among the student body and associated services and support)
- Various trainings are offered throughout the year for faculty and staff (various topics)
- An array of cultural programs are offered on campus throughout the year. Some organized by various offices, many others by cultural student organizations

Penn State Behrend is committed to the equitable treatment of all individuals and to providing an inclusive campus environment for students, faculty, and staff. While individuals are distinguished by a myriad of factors—such as ethnic heritage, gender, sexual orientation, age, religious beliefs, ideologies, socio-economic status, life experiences, and physical characteristics and capabilities—we demand that no one should be defined or narrowly perceived by these terms.

We believe that diversity has a critical role in a wholesome education, and a college campus should provide a unique intellectual environment for individuals with different experiences, backgrounds, and values to interact with one another. Only through the open exchange of different beliefs, experiences, and values can individuals develop the important critical thinking skills that will serve them throughout their life. This type of education allows students and faculty to create and share knowledge in a safe, accepting, and nurturing environment, resulting in a richer education for all.