Inclusive Excellence
The dignity of all human beings is the core theme of Catholic social thought and as such the cornerstone of the University’s diversity and inclusion efforts. Becoming more diverse and strengthening the University’s Catholic mission is a single project, not two parallel tasks.
—Notre Dame 2033: A Strategic Framework
Notre Dame is called to be a community distinguished by its inclusivity. Inspired by Catholic social teaching, we strive to respect the dignity of every person; build a University community in which all can flourish; and live in solidarity with all, particularly the most vulnerable.
Our ability to fulfill Notre Dame’s mission depends on ensuring that seekers of truth from every background and intellectual perspective feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to do their best work here.
Catholic social teaching influences more than the type of campus we aspire to be; it inspires our institution-wide commitment to research that advances the common good and our mission to cultivate in our students not only an appreciation for the great achievements of human beings, but also a disciplined sensibility to the poverty, injustice, and oppression that burden the lives of so many.
In the Office of the Provost, these efforts are led by Keona L. Lewis, Ph.D., Assistant Provost for Academic Diversity and Inclusion, in collaboration with partners across the colleges, schools, and academic units. This work also engages the Office of Institutional Transformation, which leads campus-wide efforts to enhance inclusive excellence and foster a culture of belonging. To learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion at Notre Dame, visit diversity.nd.edu.