Diversity & Inclusion

Our Mission

The Indiana University Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering Office of Diversity and Inclusion (LODI) helps fulfill the Luddy School diversity statement by fostering an environment that includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, identities, abilities, experiences, interests, and perspectives, and intentionally fosters appreciation of the values, skills, and abilities of everyone. LODI’s approach to diversity and inclusion is multifaceted to broadly represent the eclectic and holistic experience we strive to afford for all stakeholders while creating a culture of inclusion.

We implement research-based best practices for recruitment, retention, and outreach initiatives that touch not only our target populations but are of benefit to all our stakeholders. We strive to provide programming, events, activities, initiatives, opportunities, and resources regarding diversity and inclusion topics to enhance the learning environment and experience. The Luddy School Office of Diversity and Inclusion is committed to building a welcoming, respectful, diverse, and inclusive academic and social environment that attracts high potential and innovative students, faculty, and staff while supporting the growth of globally diverse leaders and citizens committed to inclusive excellence in our nation and world.

 

 

IU receives award for championing diversity

Our work is not done in a vacuum. We are part of the larger diversity and inclusion conversation at IU. We're excited that IU's work in this area has been longterm and sustained. While there continues to be room for improvement, we celebrate IU receiving the Diversity Champion award by INSIGHT Into Diversity.

LODI Goals

  • Promote diversity and inclusivity awareness and appreciation
  • Encourage diverse and inclusive perspectives
  • Strengthen and augment Luddy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion
  • To ensure that Luddy is an inclusive and welcoming environment
  • Provide leadership in recruitment, retention, and outreach initiatives for underrepresented populations

Recruitment, Retention, and Outreach

The Luddy School is committed to increasing the enrollment of historically underrepresented populations (African Americans/Black, American Indians including Native Alaskans, Hispanics/Latinx, Native Pacific Islanders, and women) in the field of computing via intentional, innovative recruitment, retention, and outreach efforts.

Our strategic recruitment plan focuses on increasing:

  • The number of underrepresented applicants and admitted students at the undergraduate and graduate level.
  • The number of pre-majors at the undergraduate level.
  • The number of underrepresented students enrolled in introductory courses at the undergraduate level.
  • The number of underrepresented students to complete degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level.
  • Degree and certification program awareness both on and off campus via intentional marketing and initiatives.

Key Terms

Defining diversity and inclusion

The LODI staff guide the development and implementation of initiatives, policies, procedures, and practices to promote and sustain a diverse, inclusive, and equitable academic environment in the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering. Inclusivity increases critical and analytical thinking skills, improves innovation and effectiveness in solving everyday problems, and enhances the educational experience of all students. LODI is dedicated to promoting inclusive excellence to ensure that every member of our Luddy family feels a sense of belonging and mattering to thrive and develop personally, academically, and professionally. LODI staff believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental tenets of inclusive excellence.

Diversity is a word that we encounter almost daily while Inclusion is another word that is often used in conjunction or interchangeably with the word “diversity.” What is diversity and inclusion, particularly in the context of the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering?

Diversity: Diversity is the dimensions of our identity that make us different from one another.

Inclusion: Inclusion is bringing together or leveraging differences to value, respect, and support each other. Inclusion increases one’s sense of belonging.

Assistant Dean Lamara Warren provides a delineation of diversity and inclusion as diversity is what makes us "Who We Are" and inclusion is "What We Intentionally Do" with diversity to ensure everyone feels they belong.