Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility

As Dr. Rosenbaum noted in his inaugural address in 2014 and again in his response to the 2023 Supreme Court ruling, diversity is ingrained in our commitment to excellence. Diversity in thought, lived experience, and background matter; it enhances the potential for novel discovery and amplifies the impact of the Institute.

Caltech's institutional mission to "expand human knowledge and benefit society through research integrated with education" is linked directly to the Institute's commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA). Diversity, of perspective, lived experience, and background, is a critical contributor to excellence, inspiring better science and more inclusive technology. Further, an equitable, inclusive, and accessible institutional environment ensures that all individuals with the interest and talent can find belonging in, contribute to, and thrive in an engaging intellectual community.

History has taught us that consistent and focused attention manifests change. History also demonstrates that when attention falters, so does progress. New generations of students, postdocs, faculty, and staff find themselves confronting familiar obstacles in addition to new ones. The lesson is clear: For there to be real change, the Institute as a whole must move forward with intention and create a future that builds on the solid foundation of our collective efforts.

We aim to implement a robust, evidence-based strategy to embed IDEA into the routine processes and functions (e.g., hiring, teaching, mentoring, evaluation of staff and faculty, communications) and build capacity for inclusive practice across the Institute. We encourage a campus-wide commitment to and ownership of these values and their manifestation in our daily interactions. We are committed to cultivating a campus climate where everyone feels welcome. Through an equity-minded approach, we are removing barriers for historically excluded populations to flourish within our Caltech community.

• Inclusion: How individuals experience the institution; how they are valued, supported, and welcomed.
• Diversity: Representation within the institution, division, and/or work unit.
• Equity: Fairness and justice, as evidenced by parity in outcomes and opportunities. Consciousness of how social location (e.g. gender, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, ability status) can affect the opportunities available to an individual.
• Accessibility: Ensuring equitable experiences for all community members with disabilities.

Caltech strives to become an example of how a diverse, inclusive community committed to equity permits individuals to thrive while fulfilling the Institute's mission at the forefront of research and education.