VIU welcomes people from different parts of the world and disciplines, creating a unique, formative space where each member of the VIU community plays an integral role in embracing and promoting diversity and inclusion, shaping a campus that fosters a sense of belonging as well as enhancing personal development and academic outcomes.
Being a member of the VIU community involves creating a safe space for the exchange of diverse perspectives and ideas, through both words and actions, with diligent attention and intention. It involves the understanding that diversity, inclusion and belonging are dynamic concepts, impacted by our situated contexts.
Diversity is inherent and celebrated in the VIU community. Intersectional characteristics involving differences such as ethnicity, nationality, language, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, education level, academic discipline, age, gender identity and expression, learning differences, teaching styles and geographic urban or rural upbringing all contribute to forming unique life experiences, identities and perspectives. Each person who arrives at VIU has the opportunity to learn more not only about others but themselves as well, fostering greater awareness and open-mindedness.
Inclusion aims to create an environment that recognizes, respects and values diversity through ongoing reflective, active and intentional measures. Regular feedback on inclusivity is important as it is experienced in different ways and it is often changing. Each member of the VIU community can contribute to strengthening an inclusive campus culture where unique perspectives and talents are cultivated and equal access to opportunities is promoted so that everyone has an opportunity to flourish and experience a sense of belonging.
Belonging is a person’s feeling of acceptance to be their authentic self, express their opinions, and have their unique identities acknowledged and respected. This feeling is subjective and felt in varying ways and degrees. It is also sensitive to changing personal life experiences. Engaging in mutual support and reflective thinking can encourage more meaningful interactions as people feel safer to express themselves without fear of rejection or judgement.
Thank you for being a valuable member of the VIU community and contributing to a campus experience which celebrates diversity and inclusion. Feedback on your diversity, inclusion and belonging experience at VIU is welcome.
Go to Student Inclusion Support
Contact: diana.mattiello@univiu.org
