Diversity and Inclusion

The Department of Music at the University of Buffalo is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for its students, faculty, and staff.  We view diversity holistically, understanding that the definition is constantly evolving. We also know that a diversity of ideas, approaches, disciplines, and learning and musical styles are essential to inclusion and equity.   We believe that increased diversity will support our strategic objective of attracting the highest-quality students, faculty, and staff to the University at Buffalo.

 As such the Department pledges to:

• Recognize that diversity in the School’s faculty and staff, classrooms, ensembles, studios, and organizations is critical to maintaining academic and artistic excellence.
• Provide an equitable and safe environment that embraces and respects all people, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, disability status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, first-generation status, socio-economic status, citizenship status, national origin, and veteran status.
• Acknowledge that sustained dedication to these values is only possible through: ongoing professional and personal development in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and social justice for the development of policies that encourage the recruitment and retention of faculty, staff, and students from diverse backgrounds.

To accomplish this, we must create a welcoming and supportive multicultural atmosphere for all members of our community. This focus is not the work of any one individual or office; it is the work of everyone. In this spirit, we will encourage a campus-wide climate of respect, openness, and awareness that celebrates and values our diversity.