DIB: What We Offer
At the Department of Inclusion and Belonging, we are dedicated to fostering a welcoming and equitable environment for all staff members at Cornell University.
Our comprehensive range of services is designed to support individual growth, enhance departmental inclusivity, and advance campus-wide initiatives to improve equity, inclusion, and belonging among staff.
Personal and Professional Development & Learning Opportunities
We provide robust learning opportunities aimed at equipping staff members with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to cultivate diversity, foster inclusivity, and engage across differences within their departments and across campus. Our offerings include:
- Inclusive Excellence Academy: Interactive sessions covering topics such as the fundamentals of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace, bias awareness and intervention strategies, and inclusive leadership approaches.
- Online Learning Modules: Self-paced modules accessible via our learning management systems, focusing on foundational DEI principles and practical applications. Additional resources, including curated online modules via Workday Learning and LinkedIn Learning, can be tailored to your areas of interest. Explore more tools and materials through the Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) at Cornell six course certificate program. For personalized recommendations or further assistance, please reach out.
- Customized Learning Opportunities: Tailored sessions designed in collaboration with departments to address specific needs and challenges related to inclusion and belonging.
- Inclusive Excellence Podcasts: Pre-recorded interviews with campus and local community members, accessible via our website and online podcast platforms, focusing on topics that enhance and impact the employee experience.
- Inclusive Excellence Summits: Day-long, free-of-charge, virtual and in-person professional development experience promoting knowledge and community building.
Consultation
Our expert consultation services assist departments in developing and implementing inclusive practices and policies. We offer guidance on:
- Assessing and revising departmental policies and procedures through an equity lens.
- Strategizing and implementing initiatives to promote diversity within teams and departments.
- Creating inclusive environments in workspaces, meetings, and departmental events.
Coaching
We offer personalized 1:1 coaching sessions focused on professional development in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Coaching sessions are designed to:
- Facilitate self-reflection and goal-setting to enhance awareness and knowledge of DEI issues.
- Support staff members in navigating challenging situations and fostering inclusive practices.
- Debrief and apply insights gained from training sessions to everyday work environments.
Strategic Planning
We collaborate with departments and administrative units to develop and execute strategic plans that promote equity and inclusion across Cornell University. Our strategic planning support includes:
- Assisting in the creation and implementation of departmental diversity action plans.
- Providing resources and guidance in advancing initiatives within departments and units.
- Utilizing assessments and data to inform inclusive practices and measure progress.
Targeted Initiatives
We engage in targeted initiatives aimed at addressing specific inclusion challenges and opportunities on campus. These projects may include:
- Collaborative efforts with campus stakeholders to launch diversity campaigns or initiatives.
- Research projects exploring best practices in diversity, equity, and inclusion within higher education contexts.
- Partnership opportunities for staff to participate in pilot programs or task forces focused on DEI goals.
Community
The Department of Inclusion and Belonging is committed to creating a supportive and connected staff community. Our community initiatives provide opportunities to connect, grow, and foster a sense of belonging.
- Colleague Network Groups (CNGs)
- Staff-led groups that connect individuals with shared identities, backgrounds, or experiences
- Opportunities for mentorship, peer support, and cross-departmental networking
- Groups include [Disability, LGBTQ+, Men of Color, Veterans, Women of Color, and Young Professionals]
- Community Engagement Events
- Celebrations and panel discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Events that promote open dialogue and celebrate campus diversity
We welcome all staff to engage with our community offerings, find support, and contribute to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and included.
Who We Support
Our services are available to all staff members across Cornell University, including:
- Administrative and support staff interested in enhancing DEI practices within their departments.
- Managers and supervisors committed to creating inclusive and equitable work environments.
- Leaders and decision-makers driving strategic initiatives to advance diversity and inclusion goals at Cornell.
- Employees seeking guidance or support to enhance their experience of inclusion and belonging in the workplace.
Get Involved
We invite you to explore how our services can support your commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at Cornell University. Whether you are looking for learning opportunities, consultation, coaching, strategic planning support, or involvement in targeted initiatives, we are here to collaborate with you in creating a more inclusive campus community.