Diversity and Inclusion

The UL Lafayette Department of Biology supports diversity in its faculty, staff, and students, who come from a wide range of social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. We recognize that many groups have been historically excluded, and continue to be excluded, from science. In response, our department strives to make our academics, research, and community open to all. The Department seeks to further reflect the diversity of human experiences and backgrounds including race, culture, gender, sexuality, physical ability, neurodiversity, and economic opportunity. We believe diversity builds a stronger community of learning and scholarly inquiry. By including all members in our activities and resources, establishing a culture of belonging, and providing an equitable environment for everyone to succeed, we will build resiliency and creativity in our department, and the biological sciences in general. 

To further inclusivity and equitable opportunities, we commit to recruiting and retaining a diverse cadre of graduate students and faculty, supporting them on their journey through academics and beyond. To address diversity and inclusion at multiple levels within our academic setting and in our community, we will update our departmental policies to keep pace with the changing face of academia, increase resources that support retention, promote outreach (such as activities with local schools, the UL Lafayette Science Museum and the College of Sciences), and promote researchers from diverse disciplines and backgrounds through colloquium and other speaker invitations. While the path to true equity and inclusion for all who seek to become scientists is a long one, we are committed to doing the work to achieve this goal in our department, disciplines, and community.