The DEI Hub initiative is a project highlighted by its numerous accomplishments, including moving the Institutional Diversity, Equity, Advocacy and Leadership (IDEAL) Office to a new location, establishing a Center for Anti-Racism, and much more. It continues in its objectives to create opportunities and space for DEI activities and efforts and support students, faculty, staff, and the community.
"I am delighted that for two consecutive years, Temple University has earned the national Higher Education Excellence in Diversity or HEED award. This remarkable achievement underscores our commitment to championing DEI initiatives and our determination to propel forward, ensuring that DEI continues to stand as a cornerstone of the university’s strategic priorities."
Valerie Harrison
Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Impact
DEI Space
In the spring of 2023, the Temple University Institutional Diversity, Equity, Advocacy and Leadership (IDEAL) Office moved to a new, central location in the Tuttleman Learning Center. Being in the heart of campus has increased its accessibility and has made it a hub for events, resources and support. In the semester since its relocation and renovation, visitors have increased by 200%.
Diversity Advocate
As the first Director of Coordinated DEI Strategies and Initiatives, Rosa Parks-Green works with the university’s schools, colleges and administrative units to help them develop and execute DEI programs and initiatives that are tailored to their needs and consistent with the university’s overall DEI objectives. She provides encouragement, guidance and assistance and plays a key role in supporting DEI efforts throughout the university.
Center for Anti-Racism
Opened in November of 2022, the Center for Anti-Racism is a vision years in the making, supported by both Temple and state grant funds. It seeks to solve problems of racial inequity and injustice through scholarship, public education and community engagement. Guided by its inaugural director Timothy Welbeck, the center serves as a hub of university collaboration that strives to dismantle racial hierarchy and help people impacted by institutional racism.
Interfaith Inclusion Center
The Interfaith Inclusion Center is open to all denominations and strives to ensure that everyone on campus feels comfortable and supported in their spiritual and social identities. The center holds dialogues and events, recognizes holidays throughout the year, and collaborates with the Interfaith Council, which represents cultural and faith organizations on campus and in the city. There are two interfaith prayer rooms on campus (in the student center and in the DEI space) where students of any affiliation can pray, reflect and meditate on campus.