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Definition of Diversity
The College of Nursing definition of diversity embraces a broad range of identities and ancestral backgrounds, including those that have been historically underrepresented within the nursing community. Diversity bridges all aspects of human difference, social identities, and social group differences, including but not limited to:
- race, ethnicity, creed, color,
- sex, gender, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual orientation,
- pregnancy,**
- socio-economic status, caste*
- language,
- culture, national origin,
- religion/spirituality,
- age,
- (dis)ability,
- military/veteran status,
- political perspective, and
- associational preferences
Submitted by the College of Nursing's Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Committee and approved by Faculty Org. in 2013. *Revised September 2020 **Revised October 2023
The College of Nursing definition acknowledges men as underrepresented in the field of nursing and aligns with UI definition of diversity.
Commitment to Diversity
The University of Iowa has a long history and proud tradition of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our college is committed to creating a supportive environment and an educational experience that recognizes diversity and cultural competence as integral components of academic excellence.
In our continuous effort to build a richer understanding of the relationship between health and culture, our Diversity Resources Office helps guide our college - faculty, staff, students, and alumni - with knowledge and resources to increase awareness about vulnerable populations, social determinants of health, and other cultural issues impacting health.
Nurses know patients are more likely to accept health information when it is communicated in a way that is respectful and responsive to the cultural beliefs and practices of patients. The Diversity Resources Office is engaged in ongoing efforts to ensure our curriculum and programs prepare students with the skills they will need to meet the complex health demands of an ever-changing diverse population.
Diversity - UI Health Sciences
The College of Nursing collaborates with the UI Health Science Colleges and the University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics to provide a variety of events and activities that support an inclusive learning environment and increased knowledge about cultural competency in health care through:
- Welcome reception for diverse health science students
- Welcome reception for LGBTQ health science students
- Winter weather workshop for international students
- Culturally responsive health care in Iowa conference
- CultureVision training
- Guest lectures and other health related workshops
- UIHC nurse residency program diversity training
In addition, the College of Nursing is part of the UI Health Sciences' Diversity Committee.
Other Resources
CV is a user-friendly, comprehensive database with information on more than 50 ethnic and cultural groups across 12 clinical and non-clinical areas. This tool assists health care professionals in the provision of patient-centered and culturally responsive care of our increasingly diverse patient population. Email Val Garr for login information.