Policy on University Community and Values; Representation, Belonging and Fair Practice

I.  Introduction

At SGU, multiculturalism is a foundational core value that is reflected in our campus community. We recognize that the international educational environment is enhanced and enriched by a true blend of voices and knowledge from varied backgrounds and attributes. SGU is committed not only to the recruitment of students, faculty, and staff from varied backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives but also to developing initiatives designed to create an equitable academic and working environment. We embrace the belief that a multicultural environment is foundational in the provision of the highest quality education, research, and health care delivery. SGU prohibits discrimination, including discriminatory harassment, on any basis and abides by the applicable local laws of the country where the educational program is being provided, and is guided by the policy found here. The following policies are related: the student mistreatment policy, which includes the non-tolerance to retaliation policy; the non-discrimination policy; and the learning environment policy.

II. Purpose

SGU affirms that its strength as a global institution of higher learning lies in the rich variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences represented within its community. A learning and working environment that reflects a broad range of cultures, traditions, and viewpoints enhances the intellectual vitality, creativity, and problem-solving capacity of the university and prepares graduates to serve effectively in an interconnected world.

III. Definitions

Multiculturalism – fosters an environment where individuals from varied cultural backgrounds and perspectives are acknowledged, valued, and empowered to contribute fully to the academic and social life of the institution.

Representation – all voices, perspectives, and experiences of all groups within the academic community are visibly included and meaningfully reflected in institutional decision making, programs, and practices.

Belonging – the sense of feeling accepted, respected, and supported as an integral member of the academic community, where one’s identity and contributions are genuinely valued.

Fair Practice – ensures that all individuals are treated with consistency, transparency, and impartiality, with equal access to opportunities and decisions based on merit and integrity.

IV. Guiding Principles

1. Foundational Commitment
   SGU recognizes that excellence in education, research, and service is fostered through a community that welcomes and values individuals from many nations, cultures, and identities. Representation from across the global community is fundamental to our mission and our effectiveness as an international university.
2. Respectful and Collegial Environment
   Every member of the SGU community shares responsibility for maintaining an atmosphere of civility, respect, and professionalism. SGU is committed to sustaining a climate where differing viewpoints are engaged constructively, and where all students, staff, and faculty are treated with fairness and dignity.
3. Equitable Practices and Opportunities
   All institutional processes, including recruitment, admission, hiring, advancement, and participation in academic and non-academic activities, shall be conducted in a manner that ensures fair access, transparency, and impartial consideration. Departments and administrative units are expected to identify and remove barriers that may limit participation or advancement.
4. Global and Inclusive Engagement
   SGU will continue to recruit students, faculty, and staff from a wide range of nations and backgrounds, and to develop programs, events, and partnerships that promote cross-cultural understanding, mutual respect, and global citizenship.
5. Shared Responsibility for Belonging
   Each department, office, and academic unit shall take active steps to foster a welcoming and supportive environment. This includes encouraging collaboration, mentoring, and professional development that affirm the value of every member of the community and strengthen a sense of shared purpose and belonging.

V. Implementation

1. The President's and Provost’s Offices will coordinate with Deans and Directors to support initiatives that advance multiculturalism, representation, belonging, and fair practice across all University programs.
2. The President's and Provost’s Offices will create awareness by ensuring that applicants, students, faculty, and staff have exposure to its commitment to multiculturalism, representation, belonging, and fair practice through statements and policies that will be widely distributed through appropriate channels.
3. The President's and Provost’s Offices will track evaluation and assessment of its activities to promote multiculturalism, representation, belonging, and fair practice through the development of goals, objectives, outcomes, and monitoring through a continuous quality improvement process.
4. The school shall identify periodic goals to enhance participation and engagement across its academic activities.
5. Annual reporting on these efforts shall be conducted by the Vice-President of Multicultural Affairs.

VI. Accountability

Supervisors, faculty, and administrators share responsibility for upholding this policy and modelling behaviors that foster an inclusive and respectful academic community. Concerns about conduct inconsistent with these principles should be addressed through the appropriate University channels; e.g. EthicsPoint, Office of Student Affairs or Human Resources Office.

VII. Authority

President's Office; reviewed every 3 years.

VIII. Version History

(1025017)