The Case for Diversity
The world is now our neighborhood. Whether around the globe
or around the corner, we all need to better understand and respect
the ideas and values of the world’s cultures, faiths, and histories. The presence on our campuses of people from different cultures, communities, and perspectives is fundamental to quality learning at our higher education institutions. This diversity of thought and experience are important components of the higher education experience.
Students who learn at diverse institutions learn much more than what is taught in the classroom. Interacting with people who come from diverse backgrounds better prepares students for living and working in a global society. Research has demonstrated that these students who experience more exposure
to diverse perspectives report higher levels of academic
growth in skills such as critical thinking, more frequent
involvement in active and collaborative learning, and more
campus engagement. Further, students educated in diverse
settings are more motivated and better able to participate
in a complex and increasingly heterogeneous society.
There is a renewed sense of mission and urgency in advancing
efforts that promote diversity on Michigan’s college and
university campuses. In the world of work, diversity clearly
benefits business and human interest. Valuing diversity
maximizes the performance of all employees, enhances
motivation and creativity, and facilitates successful responses
to competitive pressures. Understanding the impact of
diversity helps organizations respect their employees and
enhances customer services in an increasingly diverse society.
Higher education experiences are formative learning opportunities
for tomorrow’s business, political and community leaders.
Much has been written to build the case for diversity on
Michigan’s college campuses. To learn more about the importance
of having diverse and intercultural campuses, please consider
the following reports and websites:
Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion www.miroundtable.org
Michigan Department of Civil Rights www.michigan.gov/mdcr
The Level Playing Field Institute www.lpfi.org/
