Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs

Celebrating Stag Diversity

Diversity can be defined as all the characteristics which differentiate us as individuals as well as all the characteristics which make us alike. There are many dimensions to diversity that go well beyond obvious differences such as race, gender, age, physical ability, and marital status. The less obvious dimensions of diversity include, but are not limited to: veteran status, education, sexual orientation, lifestyle, national origin, religious or political affiliation, departmental or organizational "culture", and employee status - unskilled, skilled, professional, etc.

Understanding the dynamics of diversity allows people to respect and value differences. When people feel valued, respected, and empowered, they are more motivated to work together for the common good of all.

The Office of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs seeks to develop and implement programs and services that will increase the engagement of students in activities that promote and foster an inclusive living and learning community.

Students will obtain a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity, multiculturalism, and social justice through participation and celebration in a variety of activities.

The office works with student organizations, faculty, and other University offices to further integrate diversity into developmental and social programs for students. As a result, the office establishes meaningful relationships with students in order to effectively address their needs, interests, and concerns.

Diversity in Action

Fairfield United Affinity Clubs

The students are encouraged to learn and celebrate the wide-variety of cultural, ethnic, and identity diversity present at Fairfield. Enhancing the richness of cultural diversity through student clubs and organizations is the cornerstone of the multicultural college experience. There are several clubs and organizations that work closely with the Office of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs towards supporting this idea.

The Office of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs supports a wide variety of diverse and affinity clubs that allow students to be engaged outside of the classroom. Students who are involved in these co-curricular activities gain leadership skills and make the most out of their collegiate experience.

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Diversity at Fairfield

Members of the Fairfield University community are committed to respecting and valuing one another, finding the common good rooted in us all, and working collaboratively to achieve our potential as a modern Jesuit Catholic institution. We aspire to be an inclusive, welcoming community that is representative of an ever-changing and diverse global populace. The Jesuit tradition of cura personalis – care for the whole person – animates our mission. We educate men and women who serve for and with others within the rich tapestry of cultures that comprise our contemporary world.

By encouraging dialogue, communication, community partnerships, and a culture of understanding, we foster in our students, faculty, and staff the capacity and desire to build a better world through productive citizenship and societal stewardship.

At Fairfield University, we advance this mission through:

Through radical hospitality, we welcome and invite all into our learning community.  We are committed to pursuing shared standards of excellence. In these ways, Fairfield University strives for the magis (“the more”) in a way that defines modern Jesuit Catholic education.

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Services & Initiatives

Diversity Recruitment Team

Under the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, The Diversity Recruitment Team (DRT) works to foster a community of inclusive excellence through recruitment, increased visibility, and support of students from historically under-represented populations, which include, but are not limited to, students of color, first generation, low income, students with disability and LGBTQIA students, by bridging the gap of connection between current students and prospective students.

Meet the Staff