Committed to Social Justice and Racial Equity

There’s a place for everyone at Webster. We believe a diversified community leads to an increase in creativity, decision-making and an appreciation of different perspectives. From our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Council to our working groups and sponsored events, our University is committed to inclusive excellence and prioritizes collaborative initiatives. Each of our efforts are curated to achieve sustainable and significant community-wide transformations.

 

Group of Webster students sit on stage to discuss Africana Studies
Two BIPOC students wearing graduation apparel
Four Webster students wearing all black stand on stage in front of large screen with the word "Race" on it

Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Core Value

Webster’s unwavering commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is rooted in the fundamental belief that every person has equal worth. The University’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion extends to all individuals from historically underrepresented and marginalized groups, including but not limited to Black, Indigenous, Latine, Asian, Pacific Islander and other people of color; immigrants and refugees; LGBTQIA+ individuals; people of diverse gender identities and expressions, including transgender, intersex, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming and two-spirit individuals; people with all manner of disability, whether apparent or nonvisible, including mental health conditions, neurodivergent, chronic medical conditions and Deaf individuals; people from a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds; individuals from under-resourced or economically marginalized communities; military veterans and individuals across all ages, body types and national origins or nationalities. Recognizing the complexities of intersectionality and the commitment to ongoing education, inclusivity and equity for all, Webster maintains a community with a sense of belonging for all identities. It ensures everyone can learn, work and live in an atmosphere of dignity, respect, safety and care.

Making a Difference

Webster's Annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Conference

Keynote Speaker, Rev. Dr. Starsky D. Wilson and Vincent Flewellen sit in comfy white chairs on stage for conversation

Success by the Numbers

The 2024 DEI Conference included 24 conference presenters including speakers, moderators and panelists over the course of seven conference sessions. The conference drew more than 2,000 registered attendees from 23 countries, and 152 different colleges, universities and K-12 schools were represented globally. Thank you to our 11 sponsors who allowed the conference to be free to attend.

2026 DEI Conference Registration

 

Attendees to the conference included faculty, staff, students, alumni, corporate partners and community members from around the St. Louis area. Topics at past conferences have included: hate speech, unconscious bias, gender in the media, how to be a transgender ally, multigenerational workforces, accessibility issues and immigrant experiences.

Read about our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Conferences, including summaries of previous conferences.

Webster Speaks Series

Launched July 8, 2020, “Webster Speaks: Dialogues on Race, Equity and Inclusion” featured candid conversations with local and national leaders on race, equity and inclusion. The series concluded June 1, 2022, after 23 episodes, and remains a testament to Webster’s commitment to dialogue and community engagement.

View All Webster Speaks Episodes

Learn More

Founded in 1915, Webster is an independent nonprofit university with students studying at campus locations in North America, Europe and Asia, and in a robust online learning environment. With its main campus in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, Webster University’s network of faculty, staff, students and alumni forge powerful bonds with each other and their communities around the globe. The University is committed to engaged learning experiences and empowering our students to become catalysts for change. Prepare for your next step and explore our community resources.

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