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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has achieved INSIGHT Into Diversity’s Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for the 9th consecutive year. The HEED Award is the only national honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion across their campus.  

“This historic distinction underscores SIUE’s continued rise as a national leader and model for effective anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion (ADEI) efforts,” said Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD. “As we define the University’s future through our newly launched strategic plan, inclusive excellence will be through-line in every bold step forward. SIUE is committed to making social mobility possible for entire families, as we close equity gaps and build a diverse community of professionals who cultivate an environment of academic excellence.” 

In 2022, SIUE’s Division of ADEI launched the CODES (Community-Oriented Digital Engagement Scholars) program for first-generation students and the Black Scholar Experience. Both provide built-in community support aimed at closing equity gaps and improving graduation rates. The Division also amplified its community outreach and programming through the Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development Hub (The Hub). Additionally, the Department of Athletics hosted an exclusive screening of The Loyola Project as one of its many ADEI-focused initiatives for student-athletes and community members. 

“As a campus community, we should all be very proud of our accomplishments yet focus on continued advancements for the betterment of all,” said Vice Chancellor for ADEI Jessica C. Harris, PhD. “I have a profound appreciation for the efforts of ADEI leaders campuswide and the university’s investment in ADEI as a top priority.”  

SIUE is proud to be part of the SIU System, that distinguished itself as the only 2022 HEED System Award Winner in the nation. In partnership with the System, SIUE contributed to the development of an inclusive language guide and land acknowledgement statement, as well as the distribution of a campus climate survey. 

“The HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees —and best practices for both — as well as continued leadership support for diversity and other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” said Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We take a detailed approach to reviewing each application in deciding who will be named a HEED Award recipient. Our standards are high, and we look for institutions where diversity and inclusion are woven into the work being done every day across campus.” 

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine is the nation’s oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. SIUE will be featured alongside 102 other award recipients in the publication’s November 2022 issue. For more information, visit insightintodiversity.com. 

Photo: 2022 HEED Award logo.