DUS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We welcome everyone to our community.
David Smith
Associate Dean for Advising and Executive Director
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What are you doing to become more culturally competent?
Reading, listening, observing.
I reflect upon my own values and how I might identify possible biases that I have that are unintentionally fostered by my upbringing and development.
I aim to take every opportunity to attend an event or ask about a new word, fad, or trend so that I can do my part to remain an active participant in the desire to promote my own understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion for all individuals.
Listening. Really listening. And talking and reading and learning about different life experiences.
I try to be more culturally competent by sharing ideas and experiences with others from a wide variety of backgrounds when I can. I read articles, books and more that are written from a different perspective than my own. I search for opportunities to move out of my own understanding and opinions and learn about how others view the world, its events and its people. I listen and learn when I know that I am not well-educated in a topic being discussed and then try to incorporate the new knowledge in how I act. I also value the opportunity to visit and explore new and different places both domestically and internationally to first-hand experience different cultures.
Student Spotlights
Having safe spaces where you can interact with people that may or may not look like you, and engage in conversation and activity, makes you feel big at a smaller school.
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As a college student transitioning into adulthood, I believe it is imperative to involve yourself within your community to ensure that you are an asset by being able to work well with people of all levels and by being a leader with a diverse background. From my involvement in the Penn State community, I have a seat at the table and I use my voice to provide ideas to enhance the college experience, holistically, for students of color and to provide sustainable solutions for issues that students of color may face.
Read morePartnerships
Connect to the multicultural coordinators in each college.
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Multicultural & Special Interest Organizations
Join one of over 70 multicultural student orgs.
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First-Generation College Students
Connect to 1st gen students, professionals, and advocates.
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Student Stories
Hear from our students; do you see yourself in their stories?
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Community & Belonging
There are many ways to be a Penn Stater. Let us help you build your community.
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Connect With Us
Connect with the DUS Diversity Team.
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Penn State’s Land Acknowledgement
Find out who lived on the land Penn State resides.
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An inclusive, diverse community is one where all experiences and perspectives are valued. Here in DUS, we want everyone to feel that they can share their stories openly and be accepted for who they are and how they see the world. It is through the inclusion of the broadest range of perspectives that we will find solutions to the many problems that confront our world. I encourage you to be yourself, to share your story with your adviser and others, and to join us in building a strong, inclusive community at Penn State.