Drake University Receives HEED Award for Diversity Excellence
Drake University has been distinguished with the 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from Insight Into Diversity magazine, the sole recipient of this honor in Iowa. Recognized among 113 colleges and universities nationwide, Drake’s award highlights its unwavering commitment and innovative initiatives to promote equity, access, inclusion, and diversity across its campus.
A Recognition of Significant Initiatives
Drake University’s dedication to fostering an inclusive educational environment is exemplified by a range of pioneering programs and initiatives. Among these, the Community of Racial Equity (C.O.R.E.) for Advancement stands out, promoting dialogue and progress in racial equity. Additionally, the university supports multicultural student organizations and faculty and staff affinity groups, which play critical roles in creating a supportive and engaged community.
A centerpiece of Drake’s diversity efforts is the establishment of the Sammons Intercultural Center within Morehouse Hall. This space is specifically designed to serve multicultural student organizations, providing a hub for cultural exchange and academic support. Terrance Pendleton, Associate Provost for Campus Equity and Inclusion, emphasizes, “Drake values diversity as a core strength and is setting the standard for what an inclusive and welcoming campus should look like.”
Record-breaking Diversity
The recognition by Insight Into Diversity aligns with Drake University’s remarkable achievement in enrolling its most diverse undergraduate class in its 143-year history. This year, 37.4% of the student body consists of diverse backgrounds, marking an impressive 4.6% increase from the previous year. This development not only speaks to Drake’s successful strategies in recruitment but also its commitment to maintaining a diverse student population.
Local Impact and Community Interest
Drake University’s recognition with the HEED Award is not only a point of pride for the institution but also carries substantial implications for the local community. As the only university in Iowa to receive this accolade, Drake sets a new benchmark for educational institutions across the state, further reinforcing the importance of diversity and inclusion as key drivers of social progress.
James Ward, a local community leader, commented on the significance of this recognition for Des Moines and the wider region: “Drake’s dedication to diversity enhances the cultural fabric of our community. It serves as an inspiration to other organizations in the area to prioritize inclusivity and continue building a more equitable society.”
Connections to Broader Initiatives
This award ties into a variety of broader initiatives and partnerships that Drake University is actively involved in. The university has recently announced a new admission agreement with Iowa community colleges and the Iowa Private Transfer Collaborative, aiming to streamline and enhance access to higher education. Additionally, The Ray Center at Drake has partnered with the Society for Human Resource Management to promote workplace civility, further extending the university’s influence beyond its campus.
The recognition from Insight Into Diversity not only celebrates Drake’s existing achievements but also motivates continuous innovation and dedication to diversity within the university. Professor Teri Koch, newly appointed as Dean of Cowles Library, expressed optimism about the future: “This award propels us to further our mission of inclusivity and educational excellence, ensuring all students feel valued and empowered.”
Future Implications
Going forward, Drake University’s commitment to diversity will likely serve as a model for other institutions both within and beyond the state. It underscores the essential role of higher education in advancing social equity and fostering environments where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.
While the accolade is indeed commendable, experts suggest ongoing evaluation and adaptation of diversity programs to sustain their impact. As social dynamics evolve, maintaining open channels for feedback from the community and students will be crucial for the university to build upon its successes.
Resources and Further Information
For residents and prospective students interested in learning more about Drake University’s diversity initiatives, an array of resources and information is available. The university’s website provides detailed accounts of programs like C.O.R.E., the Crew Scholars Program, and faculty and staff affinity groups. Public forums and open houses planned in the coming months will offer firsthand insights and opportunities to engage with university leaders and diversity coordinators.
Indeed, Drake University’s HEED Award for 2024 is a landmark achievement that encapsulates its vision for an inclusive, forward-thinking academic community. As Des Moines and the broader Iowa community witness this progress, the hope is that these strides in diversity lead to broader societal transformations, influencing local impact and setting the stage for a more inclusive future.
