Show-Me State Times

Saint Louis University has been honored with the 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award by Insight Into Diversity magazine. The publication is recognized as the oldest and largest diversity-focused outlet within higher education.

The award selection process involved a detailed application assessing recruitment and retention strategies for students and employees, alongside leadership support for various aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB).

"This recognition reflects the commitment of the DICE team, SLU students, faculty, and staff and their unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is valued. We are making a meaningful impact and setting a standard for DEIB," Smith said.

This marks the second occasion Saint Louis University has received this accolade. Previously in 2016, it was distinguished as the first Jesuit university and private institution in Missouri to earn this award.

"Engaging in the HEED Award process itself is a meaningful external evaluation practice that has the opportunity for significant impact and increases institutional transparency," stated Allison Brewer, assistant vice president of DICE. "As we celebrate strides we have made towards DEIB best practices, it also helps us identify where we have the greatest opportunity for growth as an institution as we continue our commitment towards building learning and workplace environments where all can thrive."

SLU will be featured along with 113 other recipients in Insight Into Diversity magazine's November/December 2024 issue. The feature is anticipated to discuss SLU’s response to a peaceful campus occupation in 2014 and how those actions continue to influence its present-day policies.