Equity and Diversity Programs

Ramapo College of New Jersey defines the term human diversity as the full range of human difference and experience. Further, diversity refers to the many ways in which people differ, such as age, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity, religion, physical and mental abilities and disabilities, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and national origin. In promoting and celebrating diversity, Ramapo College pledges to respect and value personal uniqueness and differences, to seek to attract diverse faculty, staff and students that reflect the changing demographics in the region and beyond, to seek and acknowledge common ground, to challenge stereotyping, and to promote sensitivity and inclusion.

We also define inclusion as the active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity—in the curriculum, in the co-curriculum, and in communities (intellectual, social, cultural, geographical) with which individuals might connect—in ways that increase awareness, content knowledge, cognitive sophistication, and empathic understanding of the complex ways individuals interact within systems and institutions. Inclusion exists when all individuals and groups feel accepted and are empowered to participate as full and valued members of a community.

The mission of Equity and Diversity Programs at Ramapo College of New Jersey is to ensure the community celebrates diversity and create a favorable campus climate for all through programs, and peer education.  As an office we believe that diversity is necessary for the success of the institution.

The Colleges vision for diversity encourages the examination of perspectives and values, enriches the learning experience, and prepares people to be more effective members of their community. The College thus seeks to create an inclusive and supportive environment characterized by high rates of retention and continuation of a diverse student population; providing curricula and programming that encompass diversity in all its forms; and attracting, developing and retaining faculty and staff who reflect and are committed to diversity and inclusiveness.

Goal 4 of the Strategic Plan: Cultivate And Support Diversity And Inclusiveness

Objective 4.1 The College will create a safe and supportive environment for all, with particular consideration toward members of underrepresented and marginalized groups.
Objective 4.2 The College will retain and continue a diverse student population.
Objective 4.3 The College will develop and promote curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular programs that demonstrate the value of diversity, self-awareness, examination of multiple perspectives, and respect for others.
Objective 4.4 The College will recruit and retain employees who reflect and are committed to diversity and inclusiveness.