Mission

University of Maine Diversity Leadership Institute (UMDLI)’s mission is to provide opportunities to understand, appreciate, support and strengthen the diversity of our community.  It aligns with the  University of Maine’s commitment to “developing and sustaining a multicultural and pluralistic educational community that encourages the full participation of all of its members.” [UMaine Mission Statement]  The UMDLI promotes a learning and working community that embraces a vision of Open Doors, Open Minds, and Open Hearts. Diversity is defined and represented by the myriad ways in which we differ, including: gender, race, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation and gender identity, age, faith, cultural and social class context, learning style, intellectual and physical ability, talents and challenges.

Goals

  • To create a grassroots, bottom-up approach to diversity efforts;
  • To build a well-connected support system of trained role models, staff development trainers, speakers, mentors, ambassadors, and diversity planners and consultants for the campus and the greater community that grows in number each year;
  • To provide collaborative opportunities to create structures that support the work of diversity and inclusivity on our campuses;
  • To recognize and honor those individuals, units and organizations that are committed to diversity work.

UMDLAC (Advisory Committee)