Why diversity is so important at Harris-Stowe
Dr. Henry Givens Jr.
For the St. Louis American
Three concepts that are of paramount importance at Harris-Stowe State University are: (1) accessibility, (2) affordability, and (3) diversity. All three of these concepts guide this institution in its academic and community-wide endeavors.
Clearly, the university’s commitment to providing accessibility and affordability to higher education, in as many of its disciplines as possible, is rather easy to understand, But, what – actually – is diversity, as the university sees it, and why is diversity, so defined, deemed greatly important at this institution?
When the word “diversity” is applied to human beings, either as individuals or as members of a particular group, that word really should refer only to what one must never forget to recognize as “accidental” differences – differences that have absolutely nothing to do with the very nature and inherent worth of human beings.
Yet, human differences of this kind are, indeed, extremely valuable to any group inasmuch as they provide an environment of variety that is enriching, exciting, and even a source of beauty and innovation within the group and also toward the personal development of its members. These differences make for a better and richer group life, as well as a better and richer life for the members of the group.
At Harris-Stowe, we recognize this very important fact, and we are consequently striving to more fully embrace human diversity. We know full well that, in a democracy, where the input of each individual member is essential to the success and proper governance of the group, it is most important that the environment, in which an individual learns, develops, and works, is one that is truly representative of human diversity.
Only in such an environment of learning and of work can individual members learn the importance and personal value of diversity among its members. Only in such an environment can one learn to live and work justly and constructively with others and to really appreciate the variety, the beauty, the innovation and the richness which human diversity brings.
So, we at Harris-Stowe, are proud of our diversity and are striving constantly to increase it, in all aspects of the operation of our university. Thus, every possible effort is being made to ensure that in all aspects of the university – in its governing board, in its administration, in its faculty, and in its student body – diversity is a pervading characteristic.
We are completely convinced that only through such diversity can Harris-Stowe State University continue to grow and acquire the ability, as well as the resources, that are absolutely necessary to prepare graduates, in the many professional disciplines, that are sorely needed in our democratic society – at the local, state and national levels. For us, then, human diversity is an absolute must, as well as a great and enduring blessing!
Dr. Henry Givens Jr. is president of Harris-Stowe State University.