Dear Friends,

In the context of higher education, diversity is a framework that promotes and values individual and group differences, and accommodates the multifaceted identities of its people. Diversity represents a comprehensive institutional commitment and educational priority to promote academic excellence, civic learning and engagement.

Given the unique geographical location, constitution, and purpose of our institution, the value we place on diversity is magnified tenfold and significantly impacts a growing bi-national community that exceeds two million inhabitants. Not only do we aspire to make UTEP a national model for Hispanic education, but we also want our institution to be a safe, positive and nurturing environment in which differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, and other ideologies can be explored and deeply understood.

Our task, in our advisory role to the President, is to press on the importance of diversity and to make it clear that by embracing our differences we can create a  better living and learning environment. We welcome your input.