Caltech's Mission-Based Values
A Statement of Mission-Based Values
Caltech's Mission
Caltech's intertwined research and education mission is grounded in a belief in the profound importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in realizing our goal of "expand[ing] human knowledge and benefit[ing] society through research integrated with education."
At Caltech, we value each other's different experiences and perspectives, and we strive to cultivate an environment of learning, discovery, and innovation where "our preconceptions are challenged, our research is broadened, and our ideas are refined through the expansive exchange of ideas." This environment is essential if Caltech is to remain a destination of choice for the most outstanding scholars. While talent is distributed broadly, opportunity is not. This reality requires us to emphasize the linkage between our position as a leader in scientific and technological innovation and the importance of cultivating a diverse and inclusive institutional community. "[O]nly when individuals from all backgrounds share equitably in the privileges of the academy" will we "realize fully the potential of science and engineering to create knowledge for the ages and improve people's lives today."
Our commitment to cultivate an environment in which all of our members can "thrive and realize their full potential, irrespective of individual backgrounds and circumstances" is unwavering. And, as reflected in decades of scholarly research, as well as our own institutional experience, our commitment is tied expressly to our belief in the compelling power of all forms of diversity to enhance and expand educational experiences and scientific insights that benefit all of our community members. Such diversity encourages individuals to question their own assumptions and appreciate the complex and increasingly diverse and modern world. It promotes dialogue and the "robust exchange of ideas," which in turn advances discovery, innovation, and advancement of knowledge and accomplishment—including with a more engaged and informed citizenry. Tapping into the power of diversity requires us to be intentional in our efforts to foster inclusive academic, research, and work environments for all members of our community.
How Caltech's Mission is Realized
Caltech's success depends on pursuit of our diversity, equity, and inclusion goals in all aspects of institutional life. We pursue the "most challenging, fundamental problems in science and technology" in a "collegial, interdisciplinary atmosphere" of innovation, creativity, and collaboration. And we are committed to pedagogical, instructional, and research practices that engage, motivate, and support students from all backgrounds and reflect the full range of methods and materials in our fields of study. As a campus community, we live our values by:
- Building community and strengthening connections through programs across the Institute and within the Divisions ;
- Supporting outreach activities that engage local communities in STEM-focused educational experiences and events;
- Providing education and training to students, faculty, postdocs, and staff on how to incorporate inclusive approaches to their work;
- Providing incoming low-income undergraduate and graduate students with start-up funding to mitigate financial barriers associated with the transition to Caltech.