Diversity Programs in Engineering affirms Ezra Cornell’s 1865 founding vision that “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study” and the University’s continuing commitment to including diversity on its campus through its Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds diversity and inclusiveness statement.

Mission Statement

The Diversity Programs in Engineering (DPE) office operates programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and faculty levels to facilitate the outreach, recruitment, retention, and overall success of underrepresented minorities, women, and other underrepresented groups in Engineering.

Vision Statement

The Diversity Programs in Engineering (DPE) office will be recognized nationally as the premiere diversity program in Engineering education. The DPE office will serve as a national resource center on student and faculty diversity issues related to climate, outreach, recruitment, and retention. The DPE office will model best practices for other diversity programs across the nation.

Goals

Diversity Programs in Engineering is staffed by a group of professionals working in support of the following goals (this is not an exhaustive list):

• Increase the undergraduate and graduate student recruitment and retention rates for underrepresented minorities (URM), women, and other underrepresented groups.
• Recruit and retain a diverse Engineering faculty.
• Enhance existing efforts and develop new plans to improve the climate for URM and women undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty. This includes workshops, seminars, social events, and partnerships with campus and external organizations committed to diversity.
• Implement outreach programs for gifted students in grades 9-12 to attract underrepresented, women, and/or underprivileged students to Engineering and Cornell University.
• Involve alumni and families of URM and women students in our college, campus, and community-based diversity efforts.
• Develop and enhance mentoring programs for undergraduates, graduate students, and junior faculty.