Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As KCU affirmed in 2018 with the launch of our most recent campus climate study, and have continually reaffirmed in the time since, we are One University. KCU aspires to be a campus community in which all members feel accepted, all experiences and perspectives are respected, and all voices are equally valued.

KCU respects every individual’s right to hold opinions and beliefs different from their peers and colleagues. But as One University we all must also respect that each of us have, and deserve, equal rights. We will never fully understand each other’s immensely unique experiences, fears or motivations, and our university family includes myriad beliefs – some of which may, at times, conflict. So, how do we best move forward together?

Civility. Compassion. Change.

It is only by each of us operating with both civility and compassion that KCU can hope to effect the social and systemic changes that will help create an equal, equitable and diverse society for future generations. As a university, KCU is committed to advancing every student, faculty and staff member’s understanding of the complex issues facing marginalized groups. And as One University, KCU is dedicated to ensuring that our campuses are supportive, safe and vibrant communities for all. 

Mission

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion strives to foster a transformative, welcoming, equitable and inclusive environment for faculty, staff and students who bring varied human characteristics, backgrounds, interests and points of views.

Vision

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion will lead university efforts to completely integrated diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion into all of our core activities. Through providing diverse education, conversations, communication and collaboration we will promote a culture of understanding. To develop within our campus community the capacity and resolve to make a better world through productive citizenship and collective stewardship.

Core Values

We all share in the responsibility to create a positive culture and to safeguard equity, inclusion, dignity, and respect for all. Each member of the University community—faculty, staff and students—should be a role model for others.

We strive for excellence and recognize that our differences make us stronger. We respect and seek out inclusion of differences, realizing we can learn from each other.

Affirming diversity is an essential element in accomplishing the research, teaching, and service missions of Kansas City University. Affirming diversity is critical in providing culturally competent healthcare. A diverse health-care workforce is essential to meet the needs of the rapidly changing demographics of today’s environment.

Kenneth Durgans, EdD, MA, MS

Associate Provost for Diversity and Inclusion - Diversity

• Kansas City Campus
• Office: Administration Building, Room 123
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 816.6547156

Cynthia Torres

Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator - Diversity

• Joplin Campus
• Office: Joplin Campus
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 417.2080775