Diversity and Inclusion at Appalachian

Appalachian State University is committed to developing and allocating resources to the fundamental task of creating a diverse campus culture. We value diversity as the expression of human similarities and differences, as well as the importance of a living and learning environment conducive to knowledge, respect, acceptance, understanding and global awareness.

- Appalachian State University Diversity Statement

• 18%

  racially and ethnically underrepresented students*

  (fall 2020)

• 56%

  growth in underrepresented students since 2014*

  (fall 2020)

• 97%

  growth in first-year underrepresented students since 2014*

  (fall 2020)

• 86.5%

  overall student retention rate

  (fall 2020)

• 83.5%

  retention rate for underrepresented students*

  (fall 2020)

• 41 : 59

  male-to-female student ratio

  (fall 2020)

• 342

  enrolled student veterans

  (fall 2020)

• 63

  enrolled international students

  (fall 2020)

• 12.5%

  underrepresented full-time faculty

  (fall 2020)

• 20.6%

  underrepresented new faculty hires

  (fall 2020)

• 100%

  growth in underrepresented staff since 2014

  (fall 2020)

• 60.4%

  growth in total underrepresented employees since 2014

  (fall 2020)

* Combined percentage of students who self-identify as Hispanic of any race; American Indian or Alaska Native; Black or African American; Asian; Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, Two or more races; or Nonresident Alien. This percentage is taken from the total number of students who elect to report their racial and/or ethnic identities, as well as Nonresident Alien students. Actual counts may be higher, as some students choose not to report their race or ethnicity.

Sources: IRAP, Military Affairs Committee, Office of International Education and Development.

“At Appalachian, we believe making real and powerful differences in the world is grounded in inclusive excellence.”

— Appalachian Chancellor Sheri Everts

Letter from the Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Willie Fleming ’80 ’84

April 2020

As an Appalachian alumnus and staff member, I have seen firsthand how the infusion of diverse perspectives elevates and enriches our campus. Our responsibility as an institution of higher learning is to provide students with educational and cultural experiences that increase social competencies, celebrate diversity and foster inclusive excellence. We also work to build awareness about the impact of discriminatory actions and language so we can continue to grow together as a campus community.

Fostering discussion and action regarding diversity and inclusion is especially significant on a university campus, where academically focused environments allow students to be safely and responsibly exposed to diverse schools of thought through classroom teaching, the cultural arts, extracurricular activities and scholastic research.

Every member of the Appalachian Community wants to be valued, respected, safe and supported, and to have a sense of belonging on our campus. Thus, it is the privilege and responsibility of each member of our community to help build a diverse, inclusive and welcoming environment.

At Appalachian, we embrace people of every race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ability, religion or spirituality, nationality and socio-economic status. Sustaining such an inclusive campus community necessitates the active, intentional and ongoing engagement of diverse groups within the larger campus community. This important work requires our full attention and commitment, and I thank the faculty, staff, students and administrators who have contributed, and continue to contribute, their voice and vision.

Learn more about Dr. Fleming

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