Transforming Our University Through I-EDI
The University of Guelph is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive community for all students, faculty, and staff. Through targeted initiatives aimed at increasing diversity and supporting underrepresented groups, we are advancing our goals of Indigenization, equity, diversity and inclusion to create a supportive and dynamic community where all our members can thrive.
Goals
- Transform our human resources, governance and student services systems and practices across the University to enable us to recruit a diverse student, faculty and staff body and support them in achieving their personal, professional and scholarly goals.
- Create conditions for equitable student success through scholarships, mentorships, supports, access pathways into academic programs, and by embracing the potential of the digital world.
- Lead Canada in participation of faculty and students from under-represented groups in STEM fields.
Key Measures
2023-24 / 2024-25
- Staff who identify as Indigenous, Black or another visible minority: 15% / 13%
- Faculty who identify as Indigenous, Black or another visible minority: 18% / 20%
- Faculty in STEM fields who identify as Indigenous, Black or another visible minority: 21% / 22%
- Value of scholarships available to Indigenous, Black and Racialized Students: $714K / $803K
- Number of scholarships available to Indigenous, Black and Racialized Students: 66 / 72
Achievements
Mawadisidiwag Sweetgrass Garden
Built in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, students, and the Indigenous Student Centre, the Mawadisidiwag sweetgrass garden is more than a teaching space—it’s a living symbol of reconciliation. Situated on Treaty 3 land, the garden supports land-based learning, community-building, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge into everyday campus life.
OUTline Campus LGBTQ2IA+ Support Expands
Celebrating 50 years of continuous service, OUTline remains a vibrant resource that has grown from a simple helpline into a hub for peer-led programming, events, and support for LGBTQ2IA+ students. This year’s expanded offerings, including gender diverse discussion groups and sessions on precolonial queer identities, underscore student leadership in shaping inclusive, resilient communities.
Gender-Inclusive Housing Enhances Safety and Choice
Following broad student consultation, U of G expanded its gender-inclusive housing options, making it easier for students of all gender identities to find safe, comfortable residence accommodations. This enhancement reflects an institutional commitment to inclusive policy design and equitable student experience.
Removing Barriers to Field Research for Underrepresented Students
In August 2024, U of G supported students in a week-long FREED field course at the Algonquin Wildlife Research Station. Students gained immersive training in ecological research while building community and mentorship connections, an intentional effort to broaden STEM pathways for equity-deserving groups.