Diversity Plans, Initiatives & Programs

In the past two decades, Appalachian has made notable strides in diversifying its student body, faculty and staff.  This growth and progress has not happened by chance, but through a series of considered and deliberate steps taken by the university toward this objective.  In our quest to be a leader in the region and in the world, as well as to fully realize a vibrant community that embraces and reflects a diverse humanity, we have the ongoing responsibility and opportunity to proactively enhance diversity. 

Therefore, in the spring of 2007, Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock will name a committee charged to develop a new, comprehensive diversity plan for Appalachian State University.  The committee will be composed of students, faculty, staff, administrators, and community members.  Over the course of the next year, this working group will examine numerous factors which enter into how we best prepare our students to effectively live and flourish in a global society.  A sampling of these factors for review and discussion involve living, learning, and working climate and quality of life issues for students, faculty and staff – including but not limited to recruiting and retention, the role that diversity can play in curriculum development, admissions, assessment and accountability, external funding opportunities, and financial aid.  Appalachian’s ultimate goal is that diversity not be a stand-alone initiative, but a reality that is fully integrated into all aspects of how we function as an entity.

According to the Pappas Consulting Group, “At the same time that major shifts are occurring in North Carolina’s economy, there are fundamental demographic changes taking place.  This growing and already diverse state will become increasingly diverse.  And without positive intervention, this diversity will pose substantial economic, educational, and regional challenges for the state.” The chancellor’s committee will consider how diversity initiatives might potentially foster and stimulate economic development throughout North Carolina during the state’s trade and industry transition, as well as how the university will respond to the needs of an increasingly diverse citizenry.

Appalachian’s investment in a culture supported by an institutional commitment to diversity must be open ended and ongoing, and the articulation of this commitment must be continuous and unequivocal. By developing and sustaining a learning community in which all people have an equal prospect for access, opportunity and engagement, we position the university to be a leader in North Carolina, in the region, and well beyond, by preparing students to thrive in an increasingly diverse world, with all its rich dimensions.

University Diversity Plans

University Initiatives & Programs