Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan

• Year 2 Update: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Plan (PDF)
• Original: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategic Plan (PDF)
• Feedback Form

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is a priority for the University, for the College and for me as we strive for excellence in all that we do. Research is clear that diverse groups produce better outcomes. Equity means everybody is treated fairly. An environment that is intentionally inclusive will expand opportunities for everyone.

Our comprehensive DEI Strategic Plan, with eight specific objectives, reflects the multi-faceted approach we are taking to ensure our campus is a diverse, equitable and inclusive place. I am pleased to share the progress we have made to date with the Year Two Update to the strategic plan.

In FY17, the College executed a well-planned, well-received transition from Dean Munson to me. In formal and informal ways, faculty interests, opinions and concerns gained renewed emphasis. Town halls provided new forums to discuss staff and student issues.

A new vision, mission and set of values—developed with ample faculty and senior staff input—created the cohesive framework for engaging with all members of the community. “Serving the common good,” “inclusive and innovative community” and “diversity, equity and social impact” resonate in these foundational documents. These tools have been instrumental in leadership decision making. They have proven particularly valuable for DEI planning, programs and challenges.

Much work lies ahead of us in FY18. Our aim is to further extend the reach of DEI engagement to more students, faculty and staff, and to bring external stakeholders more actively into our DEI planning and initiatives. Furthermore, we will be proactive in communicating plans and activities to all constituency groups.

We remain committed to our DEI vision: A “best-in-class” institution for developing engineers who excel as multicultural technologists and leaders – intellectually and socially engaged, valued, interactive, and well connected to resources, information, each other, the College, the University, the nation and the world.

I urge all students, faculty and staff to read the report, respond to it and determine what you can do to improve DEI at Michigan Engineering. Each of us has a role to play in making our community better. Ultimately, we will be judged not by what we say, but what we do.

We look forward to your continued feedback as we build on our DEI foundation. Please share your thoughts and experiences through the feedback form, and stay abreast of progress by reading updates from the DEI Implementation Committee and subscribing to DEI Update emails. Thank you for your partnership and support.

– Alec D. Gallimore, Ph.D.
Robert J. Vlasic Dean of Engineering
Richard F. and Eleanor A. Towner Professor of Engineering
Arthur F. Thurnau Professor

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