Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Our Mission: Building on Roosevelt University’s core values, historical origins, and best practices, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) will mobilize creative approaches to advise, support and foster diversity, equity, inclusion and opportunity toward a cultural shift essential to social justice and the experiences of our community.

Our History

75 years ago, Roosevelt University was born when a visionary leader and 62 faculty members had the guts to go against the norms of exclusion in favor of inclusion. They went against the discriminatory practices of higher education in 1945. When asked to limit access because of race, religion and gender, they simply said, “We don’t count that way.” Our history is grounded in courage, acceptance and a commitment to social justice.

Our Present

Roosevelt’s institutional culture, mission and current strategic plan stem from this commitment to diversity, inclusion, and access on which the university was founded. The university has championed social and racial justice since its beginnings and continues in this spirit today. Roosevelt’s view of justice is based in a belief that fairness, honesty, integrity, equity, and critical agency should resonate throughout every institution within a civil society.

Related News

Diversity, equity and inclusion are constant themes throughout everything that happens at Roosevelt. Browse our recent news stories for a glimpse into DEI in action at the University.

Advisor, Mayra Salgado and student hold award certificates from RU Proud organization.

The LGBTQ+ student organization welcomes Lakers of all orientations, and it advocates for queer rights and representation on campus and beyond.

a red yellow and green design with the words "Juneteenth: Freedom Day"

Roosevelt University is excited to share with you some of the Juneteenth Celebrations taking place around the city of Chicago.

Angelina Lambert portrait with purple background

How the RU Proud president accelerated their education at Roosevelt and expanded opportunities for non-traditional students.

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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion