Statement of Inclusion and Belonging

Inclusion embraces the broad spectrum of unique personal identities, experiences, and perspectives arising from differences in origin, culture, and life situations. Ottawa University aims to be welcoming and supportive of open and respectful dialog among all community members regardless of age, ability, ethnicity, race, religion, biological sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic background, language, and education. Inclusion promotes freedom from bias and favoritism, fostering unity, empathy, access, opportunity, a sense of belonging, and an environment where everyone's contributions are valued and respected.

Ottawa University is proud to have an inclusive, accessible, and diverse community that encompasses its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and Board of Trustees. As an institution guided by our mission statement, we believe that by fostering an environment that values inclusion, we can create a richer, more impactful educational experience for all. A sense of belonging is essential throughout our institution. This statement reflects our foundational calling as a Christ-inspired community of grace and open inquiry focused on seeking out different perspectives, listening intentionally, and advocating for justice within our community.

LIVE INCLUSION AND BELONGING BY:

  • Encouraging and empowering everyone to foster an environment that is open and welcoming.

  • Valuing and respecting others whose personal identities, experiences, values, and world views are different from our own.

  • Strengthening our intercultural awareness through caring curiosity and proactively seeking out intercultural experiences beyond the classroom.

  • Creating a shared culture across all our campus settings and spaces, ensuring everyone feels heard, valued, appreciated, and respected.

  • Listening actively to others within the campus community and beyond with compassion, empathy, and respect recognizing that diverse perspectives enrich our collective understanding.

  • Behaving as open and inclusive people through our actions and voice in all settings in which we conduct our lives.

DEVELOP OUR CAPACITY TO EMBRACE INCLUSION AND BELONGING BY:

  • Fostering personal growth by actively exploring and working to understand the origins of our assumptions, judgments, and points of view and constantly challenging ourselves to refrain from prejudice or unexamined points of view.

  • Promoting and nurturing a learning environment in which students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to recognize the challenges, accomplishments, heritage, and perspectives of all people.

  • Learning to engage in constructive dialogue with a willingness to listen to differing perspectives.

  • Supporting initiatives that broaden our university community's perception of diversity, connecting with other communities to enhance mutual understanding and respect for diversity.