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Diversity Statement & Considerations

The diversity statement is a document frequently requested in academic job searches across all disciplines and institution types. The form of the requested content can vary widely, from a stand-alone statement to components and themes presented across the application documents included in your portfolio. When requested as a stand-alone statement, the document should be no less than one page, and no more than two.

The purpose of your diversity statement content remains the same—to communicate how diversity impacts:

  • Your own development as a researcher, educator, colleague, and community leader
  • Others’ development and learning through your research, teaching, mentorship, and service

While statements are strong when built on the writer’s story, there is no expectation of identity disclosure. Rather, think of ways to highlight experiences you have that help you empathize with students and/or colleagues facing challenges in pursuit of their goals.

If you are uncomfortable disclosing examples of privilege and/or oppression from your personal life, think about studies or statistics that you can cite to ground your approaches and philosophy.

Example Postings

Consider the following examples of academic job postings that require content focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion:

From a small, liberal-arts college:

At our institution, we strive to make our campus a respectful, engaged community that embraces difference, with all the complexity and individuality each person brings. With your application materials provide a separate, one-page statement on inclusion that addresses how your teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and/or community service demonstrate a commitment to and/or evidence of engaging with issues of diversity and inclusion.

From a large, R1 public institution:

Applicants should provide a curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching interests, and three letters of reference which address teaching qualifications.

We particularly seek candidates who will significantly contribute to the diversity and equity of our program, and who have experience working diverse and underserved populations, and have demonstrated a commitment to improving the diversity of academic communities. The College views inclusiveness and excellence as interconnected in the work of its faculty.

Note, the liberal arts school requests a dedicated statement addressing issues of diversity and inclusion in relation to specific aspects of the applicant’s work as a future faculty member. In contrast, the R1 outlines considerations to be communicated throughout the applicant’s CV, research, and teaching interests.

Content Considerations

As you develop your tailored content, determine how the job-seeking institution defines diversity, equity, and inclusion. Look through the job call and the institution’s website; they might have a statement of values or future-looking vision. In addition to the call itself, reflect on the following:

  • Is the institution mission-driven?
  • Are there explicit priorities expressed at a departmental or institutional level?
  • Are there specific student populations the institution serves?
  • In what kind of department is the position located?

Remember, you are creating a narrative for committees. Strive to connect the department’s priorities with the impact diversity and inclusion have on your scholarly identity. For example:

  • What is the connection to diversity across your research, teaching, and service?
  • How do your research, teaching, and service benefit your students, community, and/or field?
  • How have you considered and fostered inclusivity in your teaching?
  • What is your approach to mentorship and how are you inclusive and equitable in those practices?

Keep in mind, search committees are looking for a genuine commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion – not just in your past work, but in your future as a prospective member of their community.

Maintain Authenticity

The most important part of either a dedicated diversity statement or diversity-focused content throughout your materials is to be authentic. Do not claim experiences you have not had but focus on those you know. Avoid writing a generic, “one size fits all” pitch; committees are invested in speaking with candidates who share their commitment and will read your documents carefully.

As with all of your application materials, try to have multiple sets of eyes on your content before submitting your statement. Be sure to engage with programs hosted by Northwestern’s Graduate Writing Place and Searle Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning for more guidance on developing your diversity statement.

Postdocs can make appointments for individualized feedback with the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.