Dedication to Diversity

When I came to the University of Northern Iowa in 2006, I was vocal about my belief that this university should play a leadership role in the state of Iowa. Having lived in Iowa for more than two decades I have become keenly aware of the role that UNI must play in advancing a commitment to diversity statewide.

We educate many of Iowa’s business, education and government leaders – those who will influence our society in the future. Our graduates take with them the knowledge and values they learn or refine while with us. Because we believe that appreciation of diversity is an essential component of an excellent education, we must make it an institutional priority to value, promote and teach about diversity.

By dedicating ourselves to this cause, we learn and grow as a community and as an educational institution, and we assist students in developing cross-cultural competence necessary for success in life after UNI. The change we effect in our students and on our campus will benefit workplaces, schools and communities across the state and the nation.

Our commitment to diversity is a work in progress and remains a priority. This site is but one method of acting on it. Please, look around and feel free to make use of the many resources you will find listed here, and do what you can to contribute to this important goal. I look forward to your comments and suggestions for helping us make UNI a leader in diversity.

President Benjamin Allen

Fall, 2007