Inclusive Excellence
Our Commitment to Every Student's Success
As a Catholic, Marianist university, we know that diversity and inclusion are inextricably linked to excellence and enrich our learning environment. In our tight-knit community, every person is welcome.
From roommates and classmates to faculty and peers, UD students find a relationship-rich campus that supports and challenges them to reach their fullest potential.
The University of Dayton is dedicated to improving success for all students as we work together toward greater excellence. In recent years, UD’s historically underrepresented students have achieved record-level retention, graduation and placement rates. Read more in our Inclusive Excellence Brochure (PDF).
Please note that while some campus programs or organizations are targeted to specific groups, all students are welcome to participate in any opportunity in our inclusive community.
-
75%
graduation rate for multi-ethnic students, compared to an average of 48% for Ohio public universities and 40% for Ohio public universities
-
16%
of our students are first-generation college students
-
22%
of our fall 2024 incoming class was eligible for a Pell Grant

You're Invited
Multi-Ethnic Overnight
You are invited to experience life as a Flyer during our Multi-Ethnic Overnight, April 5-6, co-hosted by UD’s Multi-Ethnic Education and Engagement Center. During the event, you will engage with UD’s community, including current multi-ethnic students, and meet faculty and staff.
Student Support
The Dialogue Zone initiative creates a space for the UD community to share multiple perspectives, cultivate listening skills and promote critical understanding as we foster a culture of dialogue.
Explore the Dialogue ZoneFor more than 50 years, UD’s Multi-Ethnic Education and Engagement Center (MEC) has served as a resource for the entire campus community, cultivating and supporting our diverse community of scholars.
Explore MECFirst-year multi-ethnic students can participate in the PEERS Mentor Program, which helps equip and empower students to successfully navigate the college experience.
Learn About PEERSAmong many support services, the Brook Center offers peer education groups to help our campus community grow stronger, happier and healthier — including peer leaders offering mental health, sexual violence and LGBTQ+ support.
Explore the Brook CenterStudent Voices
Why UD?
We asked multi-ethnic students about their experiences being part of our campus community — and why you should choose UD.
Explore Resources for Multi-Ethnic Students