Diversity in the Graduate College

The excellence we experience in our classrooms and labs is, in large part, tied to Iowa State’s commitment to diversity. We have the power to reveal what we have in common — to break down bias and connect with people based on who we really are at heart instead of what others assume based on our own bias.

Just because we may appear to be different from someone on the surface doesn’t mean we can’t connect. A wide range of perspectives spurs creativity, which is essential to strong scholarship and research. Our goal is to have diversity at ISU extend beyond our campus, thereby enriching Ames and the surrounding region.

Ways to Promote Diversity

  1. Self-reflection
  2. Implement processes
  3. Test biases
  4. Actively listen
  5. Cultivate your empathy
  6. Build relationships
  7. Embrace cognitive diversity
  8. Advocate for others
  9. Encourage and invite others to contribute
  10. Be aware of non-verbal behaviour

The Graduate College actively works to increase diversity, to support students, and to ensure that access to graduate study is possible. At ISU, you will find a wide range of services to help you achieve your goals. The networks of opportunity are not limited to campus. They can be found in surrounding communities where many ISU graduate students contribute their time and talents to help others.

The Graduate College supports and promotes diversity among its student and faculty population.