Our Role in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

As a Catholic, Norbertine, liberal arts institution of higher education rooted in the ideal of communio, we are called to actions that lead to justice for all communities. We believe that a community united is grounded in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. We welcome, value, and celebrate intersectional identities in our community, including race and ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, ability, socioeconomic status, religion, age, and any identity that holds meaning to our individual community members. We foster an inclusive environment in which each member of our community has full opportunity to thrive and participate.

The St. Norbert College community understands diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as follows:
Diversity - Seeking and fostering an environment that supports members of myriad identities. Implementing practices that welcome all community members with a wide array of experiences and skills to join our campus.

Equity - Creating structures that support access to opportunities for all members of our community. Addressing power differentials and specific barriers that limit opportunities to individuals from underrepresented and minoritized backgrounds. Recognizing that advantages and obstacles exist, we are committed to dismantling barriers to correct and address the imbalance.

Inclusion - Actively acknowledging, celebrating and promoting the participation of all members from all identities in our community. Implementing practices that integrate contributions from multiple perspectives into the decision making process of college leaders. Creating spaces where all members can flourish and celebrate in genuine fellowship.

Belonging - Creating a community in which all feel appreciated as integral members of the St. Norbert College community. Challenging the institution to cultivate the gifts of all in our community. Nurturing opportunities that empower all members to shape and influence the future of the college. Fostering relationships of mutual esteem where the individual dignity of each member is respected and cherished. Feeling as though you matter in the St. Norbert College community.

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are likened to a round table:

• Diversity: Everyone has a seat at the table.
• Equity: Everyone has fair access to all of the options on the table.
• Inclusion: Everyone's voice contributes to, and influences the conversation, at the table.
• Belonging: Everyone feels valued at, and connected to, the table.

We acknowledge that this document reflects our current understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging and will be updated as our understanding continues to evolve.