UofL shines on national stage for diversity, equity and inclusion efforts

As UofL strengthens its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, achieving national recognition is a part of that success story. 

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine has again recognized UofL with multiple accolades for its outstanding efforts to advance diversity and inclusion. For a tenth consecutive year, the national publication awarded University of Louisville with the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for 2023. For a fifth year, the UofL Health Sciences Center (HSC) has earned the Health Professions HEED Award and the Cardinals have been selected as Diversity Champions for a fourth year - a distinction given only to institutions scoring in the top tier of all HEED Award winners. The inaugural INSIGHT Into Diversity 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award also was given to University of Louisville Libraries. UofL News caught up with Lee Gill, vice president for Institutional Equity, to discuss the awards and continuing diversity initiatives.

UofL News: What is the significance and meaning of these HEED awards? What does it mean for the university and for the Office of Institutional Equity?

Lee Gill: The Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Awards hold profound significance for the University of Louisville. The award speaks to the commitment of the entire campus and the multiple initiatives and programs that we have in place to support student success. These accolades affirm our ongoing dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse campus environment. For the Division of Institutional Equity, this award validates the rigorous work of so many individuals and groups and their commitment to advancing equity, promoting inclusivity and embracing diversity as core values integral to our institution's identity.

UofL News: Why do you believe the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at University of Louisville continue to be recognized nationally? What have been the keys to being a standout in diversity excellence?

Gill: The sustained national recognition reflects the collaborative efforts of our dedicated community, innovative programming and a commitment to ongoing education. Our emphasis on inclusive practices, proactive initiatives and responsive engagement with the evolving needs of our diverse community has been instrumental in achieving this recognition consistently.

UofL News: What specific DEI initiatives were recognized by the award? Any new initiatives coming this year?

Gill: The HEED Awards commend our holistic approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, spotlighting initiatives such as Pan African Studies, HSC Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and diverse community engagement efforts. Our Cultural and Equity Center programming, which includes Black and Multiracial Initiatives, Hispanic, Latinx and Indigenous initiatives, the Women’s Center, Muhammad Ali Institute for Peace and Justice, and LGBTQ Center has been instrumental. Additionally, the work that our Employee Success Center, Student Success Services and many other campus partners contribute are keys to UofL being awarded this recognition.

Our commitment to continuous improvement is evident through education and training. This year, we are introducing new endeavors like Cardinals Rising, aimed at college readiness and preparation, and expanded outreach in STEM through the Meyerhoff Program. We recently developed the Inclusive Excellence guide to DEI programs and initiatives at the University, which is now available on our website. All these efforts underscore our dedication to fostering an inclusive environment.

UofL News: What accomplishments are you most proud of in the last few years and why?

Gill: Among our proudest accomplishments is earning one of our highest scores on the diversity plan progress reports, required by the Council on Postsecondary Education. Even as we work to continuously improve, this acknowledgment is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. Furthermore, the successful implementation of the Intercultural Development Inventory, led by Marian Vasser, has enabled faculty and staff to actively participate and become certified in training. These achievements showcase our dedication to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for all members of our community.

UofL News: What do you believe are important steps for the future in breaking down barriers?

Gill: Looking ahead, important steps for breaking down barriers include the launch of Cardinals Rising, focused on college readiness and preparation for students beginning in the eighth grade through college admission; increased enrollment in STEM through the Meyerhoff Program, which aims to diversify future leaders in STEM fields; and the Truth and Racial Healing program, which prepares the next generation of leaders to dismantle systemic racism. We also are nearing the finalization of our Diversity Strategic Plan which further solidifies our commitment to creating an environment where diversity is celebrated, equity is championed and inclusion is a shared responsibility.

For more information, visit the DEI website.