Diversity and Inclusion
Diverse People. Common Mission.
Our commitment to anti-racism is a direct expression of our Catholic, Marianist identity.
United in Distinction
At the University of Dayton, we believe diversity, equity and inclusion are inextricably linked to excellence.
As a Catholic, Marianist institution, we embrace diversity as a gift of God's creation, and we are committed to honoring the intrinsic value and dignity of all people.
We are builders of community — dedicated to advancing the common good together.
UD is one of 90 colleges and universities to receive the 2020 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.
Becoming Anti-Racist
We all have implicit bias: unconscious attitudes and beliefs that have developed over our lifetime. By making an effort to notice when our biases impact our unconscious perceptions of others, we can strive to minimize their impact.
It's not enough to simply be "not racist." Rather, anti-racism calls us to actively promote social justice by engaging in difficult conversations, challenging assumptions about how our organization functions, and disrupting existing policies and practices.
Systemic racism is embedded into normal practices and policies. Over time, they lead to inequitable outcomes to people, based on their racial identity. Before we can dismantle systems of racism, we have to first understand its origin, how it has operated over time, and the profound impact it has on the lives of people.
Diversity and Inclusion

Becoming an Anti-Racist University
UD is not immune to the kinds of racist systems and behaviors that perpetuate institutional racism. As a University community, we can — and must — do better. Here are 11 steps we're taking toward becoming an anti-racist university.
Learn How We're Working to be Anti-Racist
Diversity & Social Justice Resources
Diversity and inclusion have been a vital part of the University of Dayton’s identity since our founding in 1850. To support greater diversity, equity and inclusion, we offer an antiracism guide, action steps you can take, book recommendations and other resources.
Explore Diversity and Social Justice Resources
To be fully human, we must embrace multiple perspectives and look at the world through the eyes of people who are different from us to grow in our own knowledge, empathy — and humanity.