This week, Smith School of Business at Queen’s University released its EDII Strategy and Action Plan – a detailed framework designed to stimulate meaningful and lasting change in the areas of equity, diversity, inclusion, and Indigenization at the institution. Its development builds on prior anti-oppression initiatives and is a continuation of efforts by students, staff, faculty, and alumni who have courageously and devotedly pressed the advancement of anti-racism and anti-oppression on campus. There was significant internal and external consultation as the plan was developed.

“The work ahead of us is both challenging and vitally important,” says Brenda Brouwer, Interim Dean at Smith. “We must eliminate forms of discrimination that have perpetuated inequities in our environment, curricula, research, and administrative operations, and we must change attitudes that have disadvantaged many. Access, equity, and inclusion are essential to our school’s future and to position our students to succeed as global citizens, role models, and leaders.”

Commitments detailed in the plan fall under six core areas: responsible conduct; accessible and inclusive student experience; teaching and learning; support, resources, and capacity; research and thought leadership; and community. Each area entails specific actions that will help cultivate a vibrant, safe, and welcoming academic and work environment in which students, faculty, and staff are empowered to thrive.

The plan prioritizes accountability and includes targets and performance measurements that align with the goals and assess Smith’s progress toward achieving them. Updates on progress will be shared with the campus community, and the action plan will continue to evolve as a ‘living document’ incorporating initiatives that build on the framework and maintain momentum toward a cultural shift.

“We are answerable to the community for the commitments we make,” says Dean Brouwer. “It is through the efforts of many and support of all that we will deliver on the plans”

Smith’s EDII Strategy and Action Plan aligns with broader efforts taking place across the university in support of the Declaration of Commitment to Address Systemic Racism made by Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane and senior administrators in 2020.

Learn more about equity, diversity, inclusion, and Indigenization at Smith School of Business and read their EDII Strategy and Action Plan in its entirety.