Colgate strives to be an open, safe, and welcoming learning environment for all students, faculty, staff, and others in our extended community.
University Demographics
We closely examine the demographics of our student, faculty, and staff bodies to better inform our efforts supporting a diverse and representative campus community.
ALANA Cultural Center
ALANA is a professionally staffed organization and space that supports a wide array of multicultural and inclusive programs and initiatives. ALANA's goal is to help all students develop an appreciation of culture.
International Community
The international student community brings additional perspectives and histories to Colgate conversations and practices, both in and out of the classroom. The Office of International Student Services supports these students as they live in a foreign country and navigate the immigration requirements unique to their international status.
LGBTQ+ Community
Colgate's LGBTQ+ Initiatives office is dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and ally students. Initiatives include available Safe Zone trainings for students, faculty, and staff to better understand the needs of the LGBTQ+ community; an annual Queerfest celebrating and educating the campus about LGBTQ+ issues; ongoing student advocacy campaigns; and much more.
First-Generation Community
First-generation students at Colgate add diverse perspectives to the campus community, enriching the learning environment for all students. The First@Colgate Program supports first-generation students and QuestBridge Scholars in navigating college life and making the most of the opportunities available.
Religious Communities
Through the Office of the Chaplains, Colgate students sustain a vibrant religious community open to those of any faith, those questioning faith, and those who identify as atheist. Interfaith initiatives promote education and understanding between these diverse groups.
Center for Women's Studies
The Center for Women’s Studies is a multipurpose space where students, faculty, and staff can gather to discuss a multitude of topics spanning the feminist spectrum and consider the intersectionality of identities and various forms of oppression.
The Plan for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
During Colgate’s Bicentennial year, the University developed and adopted a plan for success moving forward, titling it The Third-Century Plan. Crucially, the plan includes a document titled "The Plan for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion," in addition to encompassing other initiatives across the University. Colgate’s vision for its next century makes clear that improved diversity, equity, and inclusion are absolutely necessary if the University is to achieve its ambitions.
"The Plan for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" presents a framework for moving the work of creating an inclusive campus forward, and also for engaging the Colgate community in this effort in the years ahead.
Courses on Race, Class, Gender, and Social Justice
In agreement with several elements of The 13 Goals of a Colgate Education, every semester Colgate offers a list of courses with an emphasis on race, class, gender, and social justice. These courses provide an opportunity for students better understand historical and contemporary issues, engage in critical dialogue, and reflect upon their identity and sense of self. We encourage all Colgate students to consider taking one or more of the courses listed at some point during their time at the University.
