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 / 2025-26
- Percent of staff who identify as Indigenous, Black or another visible minority: 15% / 13% / 13%
- Percent of faculty who identify as Indigenous, Black or another visible minority: 18% / 20% / 27%
- Percent of faculty in STEM fields who identify as Indigenous, Black or another visible minority: 21% / 22% / 17 %
- Value of scholarships available to Indigenous, Black and Racialized Students: $714K / $803K / $858K
- Number of scholarships available to Indigenous, Black and Racialized Students: 66 / 72 / 81
Achievements
New Award Supports Local First Nations Students
A new University-funded award provides support equivalent to tuition for eligible associate diploma and undergraduate students from the 11 First Nations on whose treaty lands and territories the University resides, with support also available to eligible graduate students.
New Indigenous Spaces Support Belonging and Learning
A Sacred Fire and Teaching Lodge were established alongside Nokom’s House in the Arboretum, expanding opportunities for ceremony, gathering and land-based learning. The new spaces advance commitments in Bi-Naagwad, U of G’s Indigenous Initiatives Strategy.
Advancing Accessibility Across the University
The 2025-27 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan sets priorities for removing barriers across learning, working and campus environments. U of G’s Project SEARCH program was also recognized with a Community Changemaker Award for helping young people with disabilities develop workplace skills and pathways to employment.
Strengthening Inclusion in the Research Environment
U of G joined the national Dimensions Recognition Program to identify and address systemic barriers within its research environment. The work includes an institutional self-assessment and development of actions to advance equity, diversity, inclusion, decolonization and accessibility.