Higher Education Initiatives: Equity
The Role of Equity in Quality Assurance
In response to the findings from HLC's Equity in Access and Student Success Survey (see below), the HLC Peer Corps Committee on Diversity providedrecommendations to HLC on the role of equity in quality assurance: how institutions demonstrate alignment to standards and their stated mission and goals, measure and assess the commitment, and show progress and continuous improvement. In addition, the committee seeks to provide opportunities to support HLC and member institutions’ responsibility in advancing equity based on a review of previous HLC reports, member institution feedback, and recommendations related to diversity, equity and inclusion.
The Role of Equity in Quality Assurance (September 2022)
Equity in Access and Student Success Survey
HLC conducted the Equity in Access and Success survey in January and February 2020 with the following goals in mind: capture a broad overview of the equity-related perspectives and practices among member institutions, and gather recommendations for defining HLC’s own role in advancing equity in higher education.
A total of 361 institutions responded to the survey, accounting for 37% of HLC’s membership. Survey participants provided important insights into the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices currently taking place at their campuses, as well as practical strategies to address inequities among the communities that they serve.
Equity in Access and Success Survey (March 2021)
HLC Definitions of Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion
HLC is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion. This commitment is articulated in HLC’s mission and vision statements, and it is central to HLC’s strategic plan and priorities as a learning organization with quality improvement representing a core value. Beyond its public documents, the principles of diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion are foundational to HLC’s daily service to its membership and the wider higher-education community. They are equally fundamental and likewise observable in the day-to-day engagements between HLC staff members who understand that sensitivity and compassion for others are indispensable.
HLC's approach to Equity as part of its strategic plan, EVOLVE, was based on the idea that HLC should first evaluate and strive to address equity for the internal culture of HLC before reaching out to the membership. As such, HLC has adopted for its staff members the following definitions to influence its practices related to equity. Member institutions are not required to adopt these definitions. Rather, HLC shares these definitions in the spirit of transparency, representing HLC’s drive to build capacity in these important endeavors.
- Diversity
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The acceptance and continuing reverence for the range of unique abilities, attributes and identities that reflect human existence. Diversity is achieved when such characteristics are not merely representational but are valued and called upon to inspire organizational creativity, innovative thinking and personal growth.
- Equity
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The conditions under which every individual has the resources and support needed to be successful. Equity, distinct from equality, is based on the principles of fairness and justice. Equity is achieved when lived experience is honored and there is intentionality in identifying and disrupting systemic, structural barriers as well as implicit biases in policy and practice.
- Accessibility
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The availability and independent usability of all activities, services, technologies and environments to all individuals, with consideration of a complete range of abilities and needs. Accessibility is achieved through intentional awareness, education, planning and design.
- Inclusion
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The intentional and demonstrable creation of safe and welcoming environments in which individuals are attuned to and hold themselves and others accountable for addressing power imbalances that inhibit the full participation of all people. Inclusion is achieved when diversity, equity and accessibility permeate an organizational culture.
Related Equity Resources
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