UMSL is even more diverse than St. Louis
By Thomas F. George
For the St. Louis American
Diversity in the workplace is a strategic operational goal at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. We believe in diversity of ideas and diversity within our students, staff and faculty. And, largely, we’re succeeding.
We sponsor a variety of programs and events that focus on race, gender and international relations. These programs expose the campus community to new perspectives – enhancing our understanding and appreciation of diversity.
The Action Plan that I created after arriving at UMSL in September 2003 clearly articulates our desire to create a campus community that mirrors the diversity of the St. Louis region. I am happy to report that our enhanced recruitment and retention efforts are working to achieve this goal. UMSL is perhaps the most diverse higher education campus in Missouri and, in general, more diverse than the St. Louis region as a whole.
The St. Louis region consists of 22.5 percent residents of color, while 24 percent of students, 23 percent of faculty and 31 percent of staff are classified as minorities. Most of these individuals, as you might suspect, are African-American.
The African-American community has found UMSL a receptive educational partner. We enroll and graduate more African Americans than any other university in Missouri – no other university is as involved in making sure urban students receive a quality education in elementary, middle and high schools.
Last spring, for example, 44 students from Vashon High School finished their senior year at UMSL, completing their high school courses as well as taking several college courses. Each of these students graduated and was accepted at a higher education institution, including several at UMSL.
We’re delighted about the success of these Vashon students and all of the students who contribute to the diversity that is UMSL. It makes us a better institution and it makes us better individuals. It also makes St. Louis a better place to live and work, as 75 percent of our students remain in St. Louis after graduation. That’s why we say UMSL educates St. Louis.
Thomas F. George is chancellor of the University of Missouri-St. Louis.