UMKC embraces a mission of serving individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. We carry out this value in our programming and into the everyday life of the university through our teaching, service and outreach.

Our Strategic Plan

UMKC values diversity as central to its mission as an urban-serving research university and as a driver of excellence in teaching and learning. We are committed to fostering an environment of invigorating multiculturalism, globalism, diversity and inclusion. We demonstrate this commitment in the goals outlined in Pillar 4 of our Strategic Plan.

  • Achieve a more diverse and inclusive student body and faculty and staff community to increase access and academic success
  • Create and sustain an organizational environment that acknowledges and celebrates diversity and employs inclusive practices throughout its daily operations
  • Engage students, faculty and staff in learning varied perspectives of domestic and international diversity, including social justice
  • Create and sustain an institutional infrastructure that effectively supports progress in achieving diversity
  • Leverage the university’s mission as a statewide system of institutions to improve outcomes and reduce disparities for historically under-represented and underserved populations in Missouri and in global outreach efforts

Pillar 4 is modeled and adapted from the Association of American Colleges and Universities’ Inclusive Excellence Model, a framework that integrates diversity, equity and inclusion efforts into the core of institutional functioning. We work toward this mission through our division’s robust programming, education, training and consultation efforts across campus and in the community.

The Chancellor’s Diversity Council is a representative body whose mission is to facilitate the realization of UMKC’s strategic vision and goals as outlined in Pillar 4. The council monitors, tracks and communicates Inclusive Excellence progress across all administrative and academic units.

UMKC embraces a broad spectrum of diversities, including race, ethnicity, culture, nationality, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, linguistic ability, learning style, religion, socioeconomic and veteran status, life experiences, educational level and family structure.

Learn more about the Chancellor's Diversity Council

Embrace Diversity

Hallmark’s Don Hall Jr. to Receive Award at 2023 Pride Breakfast

Hall has supported the LGBTQIA+ community throughout his tenure as a Hallmark leader, including his time as president and CEO

National Endowment for the Humanities Chair Shelly Lowe Visits Missouri

A historic visit to Missouri earlier this month, organized by Missouri Humanities.

UMKC Divine Nine Garden Deepens Community Connections

Placement in the heart of campus reflects an environment of invigorating multiculturalism, globalism and inclusion