Diversity and the Global Research-Extension University
Chancellor James L. Oblinger

From my very first day in this office, I committed myself and this university to a four-part vision  that defines who we are and what we do.

- Scholarship to meet the needs of the 21st Century

- A culture of innovation that permeates all of our activities

- Diversity and inclusiveness

- Organizational capability based on effectiveness and efficiency

Creating a campus that is both diverse and inclusive is central to the successful achievement of our  vision as a research-extensive land-grant university.  In particular, diversity of both ideas and people is essential to new scholarship, innovation, and organizational effectiveness.  Our success in realizing this vision is inextricably linked to diversity.

Increasingly, the intersection of multiple disciplines is the locus for innovative scholarship.  History and our own experiences have shown that when diverse ideas interact, the potential for better understanding increases.  Furthermore, diverse ideas can significantly enhance our application of new discoveries and improved technologies to real-world needs.  Therefore, we will continue and initiate academic curricula and courses, research areas, outreach programs and a campus culture where diversity of ideas is encouraged, nurtured, and embraced.

NC State will also continue to grow in its diversity of people.  We welcome people of all races, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations.  Human diversity provides an opportunity to significantly increase the capabilities and effectiveness of this institution.  When diverse individuals work, live and recreate together, they experience the opportunity to learn deeply about themselves and each other. Understanding both the benefits and the challenges of diversity is essential to developing leaders for the global workplace.    NC State will strive to create a campus committed to realizing the full potential of human diversity.