How DEI in Higher Education Impacts Student Development

Over the last four years in the United States of America, we have suffered a major health pandemic, witnessed African-American civil rights being violated, and the Supreme Court ending race-conscious decisions that are geared toward addressing the impact of DEI on the social and personal liberties of its citizens. This, in turn, has impacted the lives of students and young adults. The current state of things makes it imperative to incorporate DEI initiatives in an academic setting.

In this blog, we will be taking a closer look at how incorporating DEI initiatives affects students' academic performances, community engagement, and student outreach support along with many other components that hinder the overall educational experiences in a college setting.

Key Impacts of DEI in Higher Education on Students

Incorporating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in higher education enriches the learning experience by bringing together students from varied backgrounds, which enhances critical thinking and innovation. Following are some research-based examples of how DEI impacts higher education.

3 research-based key impacts of DEI on student development

Improved Student Performance

According to Gurin et al.,(2002), when classrooms have a more diversified population more sophisticated in-class discussions and critical thinking occur. When students of underrepresented backgrounds feel supported and valued, their academic performance increases.

• The Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC & U) in 2015 reported that students in higher educational institutions that recognized diversity and equity as part of their organizational structure had a higher probability of graduating on time than their counterparts.
• In 2017 the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE), created a report that correlated a diverse environment with a supportive system with a higher level of student engagement and academic success.
• Tinto (1993), wrote that educational institutions with  DEI policies and procedures in place did a better job in creating a sense of belonging for underrepresented students. This ultimately leads to higher retention rates.

In other words, a diverse population inside the classroom allows students a crucial opportunity to learn from each other. Being exposed to each other's identities is an important part of what makes the higher education environment competitive economically, socially, and politically. It’s funny to think in the greatest country in the world, everybody thinks DEI initiatives inside institutions improve the journey for African Americans only. DEI helps men, women, people who possess disabilities, and first-generational learners use their voices. It provides all marginalized folks an opportunity to live the American dream of prosperity.

Strengthened Community Engagement

• Bennet (2008) believed that when students are given the opportunity to interact with different cultures they are more prepared to work in a global environment.
• When higher education institutions focus on creating an inclusive and supportive campus environment, it attracts both students and faculty of a diversified population to that environment. Williams & Wade-Golden (2013), indicated that campuses that promote DEI collaboration and community engagement are able to maintain a good reputation and have more avenues to funding opportunities.
• DEI initiatives which are part of a strategic plan that works with community organizations assist students, such as activities like internships enable students to be equipped with appropriate 21st-century workforce skill sets.

In summary, it seems that community engagement is likely to have a positive effect on social inequalities. Community engagement challenges can only be addressed through changes in people’s priorities, beliefs, habits, and loyalties. For leaders, it’s tempting to focus on straightforward technical challenges (such as developing criteria for funding a data-driven intervention) and to neglect pressing adaptive challenges (such as dealing with changes in relationships and behaviors that staff members, partners, and service recipients will experience with the rollout of that intervention). However, community engagement and DEI initiatives help change this mindset.

Student Outreach

DEI programs bring like-minded scholars together in a thriving environment. They can also connect students to faculty and staff, leading to a better, more personal college experience.

• DEI programs provide resources, projects, events, workshops, etc. — all for the betterment of the students involved.
• DEI programs can be the support structure for students to help them deal with any obstacles or hardships that they may experience.

If DEI programs continue to be supported, more opportunities and support will be available to those who need it the most. Conversely, if DEI programs are eliminated, hundreds of thousands of students can feel lost and alone. These initiatives not only enhance individual lives but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. DEI programs ensure that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to reach their full potential — so we need more of them, not fewer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the need for robust Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education has never been more critical. As we navigate the complexities of our current social landscape, it is clear that DEI not only enhances academic performance but also fosters community engagement and strengthens student outreach. The evidence shows that diverse and inclusive environments cultivate richer learning experiences, support student success, and empower individuals from all backgrounds to thrive.

Book Cover of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Essentials You Always Wanted To Know - an all-inclusive guide to DEI incorporation.

This blog is written by Dr. Denean Robinson, author of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Essentials You Always Wanted To Know.

Find out more about the book here: 
Link to the book: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Essentials You Always Wanted To Know
Author: Denean Robinson 
Press Release: Dr. Denean Robinson’s Latest Book Provides A Roadmap For Creating DEI Inclusive Work Environments

Also read: 
The Strategic Importance of DEI in the 21st Century
Diversity in the Workplace Essentials- A Multi-Perspective View of Diversity in the 21st-Century Workplace
Understanding why the human resource department is so vital for an organization