The Lawrence University community is working to create an environment that welcomes the world to contribute to and benefit from the liberal arts education we provide. We aspire to be a diverse and inclusive community, stemming from the very founding of our institution.

Lawrence University’s mission statement affirms that we are “committed to the development of intellect and talent, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, the cultivation of sound judgment and respect for the perspectives of others.” Diversity is central to this commitment, and to the objective of preparing all Lawrentians for lives of engaged citizenship in our global society.

Mission

The I.D.E.A.S. Division at Lawrence University facilitates the institutional mission of the development of intellect and talent, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, the cultivation of sound judgment, and respect for the perspectives of others in several critical ways.

Specifically, it provides information, policies, and programs that enable the prevention and redress of discrimination, as well as, the promotion of intergroup collaboration, empathy, and cultural competence on the part of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners. Ultimately, the office works to create an environment in which all of the University community can reach their unique potential.

Vision

Our vision is to become a national leader in achieving inclusive excellence within the context of a liberal education.

MLK event on Racialized Trauma in Warch Campus Center Cinema

Office of the Vice President

The Office of the Vice President oversees: Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Diversity & Intercultural Center; Pride Center; Office of Accessibility Services; Office of Sustainability; as well as, promotes intergroup, collaboration, cultural competence and assists with the University’s objective in preparing all Lawrentians to be engaged global citizens. The Office of the Vice President is also the administrative liaison to the Lawrence Posse program.

Connect with the Office of the Vice President
Loren Dempster and Friends playing instruments at cultural festival

Diversity & Intercultural Center

The Diversity and Intercultural Center (D&IC) provides a space and programming to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, specifically students from diverse backgrounds, to be able to thrive personally, socially, and academically at Lawrence University.

Connect with D&IC
Lavender Graduation 2020

Gender and Sexual Diversity

The Gender and Sexual Diversity area exists to create community and serve the needs of LGBTQ+ students, faculty, staff, Lawrence community members, and their allies by providing high-quality support services that contribute to the academic and personal growth of community members and allies, and to offer a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.

Connect with the Gender and Sexual Diversity area
Service Dog

Office of Accessibility Services

The Office of Accessibility Services is committed to ensuring equal access to the university and its academic and campus opportunities for students with disabilities by partnering with you to determine and provide accommodations when academic and campus barriers exist.

Connect with Accessibility Services
A student sells plants at the 2022 Earthfest.

Office of Sustainability

From the water we drink and the food we eat, to how we use energy, transportation and more, Lawrence is committed to reinforcing a culture of sustainability. Our campus is a learning laboratory where our residential campus, green initiatives and coursework can integrate to champion sustainability at Lawrence and beyond.

Connect with the Office of Sustainability