Making a Difference: Leaders Place a High Value on Diversity

Research shows that a diverse population -- diverse in terms of background, talent, and perspective -- enhances the educational environment. Ensuring diversity on the U-M campus makes sense not only for social reasons, it's entirely in keeping with the University's mission of providing the best education possible. C. Oliva Frost Professor School of Information

In a time when many institutions have rolled back their affirmative action efforts, the University of Michigan has remained committed to programs that will help make for a more diverse and representative student body. This continues a long tradition within the state of Michigan, the University, and the School of taking a strong stand on issues of diversity. John L. King Vice Provost for Academic Information, U-M Professor, School of Information

The extraordinary strength of faculty research and curricula on diversity has long distinguished the University of Michigan as a leader in national and international arenas. Lester Monts Senior Vice Provost

Since its founding more than 180 years ago, the University has aspired to provide an outstanding education to a diverse student population. Former President James B. Angell, in his 1879 commencement address, said, "Good learning is always catholic and generous. ... It frowns on caste and bigotry. It spurns the artificial distinctions of conventional society. It greets all comers whose intellectual gifts entitle them to admission to the goodly fellowship of cultivated minds. It is essentially democratic in the best sense of that term." I am proud to belong to an academic community that historically has embraced diversity and is as committed today to this ideal as it was during the days of President Angell. I invite you to join me in supporting Michigan's ongoing efforts to promote an appreciation of and openness to the viewpoints and contributions of others. Mary Sue Coleman President University of Michigan