Diversity at SLU
Our identity as a Catholic, Jesuit institution shapes our understanding that every person is a divine gift, created in the image and likeness of God. This conviction informs not only what we teach, but how we live, learn and serve together as a university community.
Inspired by the Gospels, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture at SLU where all voices are valued, respected and heard. We also seek to contribute to a society grounded in love and respect for human dignity by helping build communities unburdened by discrimination and oppression.
This commitment is reflected in our institutional practices and has been recognized nationally, including being the first Jesuit university to receive a national Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from Insight Into Diversity, higher education’s oldest and largest diversity-focused publication.
Supporting Our Students
The Universal Apostolic Preferences of the Society of Jesus call us to accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future and to walk in solidarity with those who are excluded or marginalized.
Guided by values deeply rooted in Ignatian spirituality, we strive to ensure that every student feels welcomed, develops their unique strengths and thrives — now and in the years ahead.
African American Male Scholars Initiative
The African American Male Scholars Initiative provides services and experiences that connect Black male students to resources that facilitate their academic and personal success. The AAMS Initiative offers peer education and mentoring, transition and leadership workshops, advocacy, support and referrals to campus and community resources.
Audre Lorde Scholars Program
The Audre Lorde Scholars Program is designed to support students who self-identify as women of color while facilitating networking, community and social opportunities. Audre Lorde Scholars meet regularly throughout the academic school year and are partnered with SLU faculty and staff who serve as mentors.
RISE
The RISE Program supports students who identify as members of a racially/ethnically minoritized population and who are first-generation students or Federal Pell Grant recipients. In joining RISE, students engage with a community of peers who share similar backgrounds and lived experiences, helping to champion them along their journeys.