Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The School of Music at the University of Kansas is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for its students, faculty, and staff.

The School pledges to:

  • Recognize that diversity in the School’s faculty and staff, classrooms, ensembles, studios, and organizations is critical to maintaining academic and artistic excellence;
  • Provide an equitable and safe environment that embraces and respects all people, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, disability status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, first-generation status, socio-economic status, citizenship status, national origin, and veteran status; and
  • Acknowledge that sustained dedication to these values is only possible through ongoing professional and personal development in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and social justice, and the development of policies that encourage the recruitment and retention of faculty, staff, and students from diverse background.

Support DEIB Programs

Multicultural Music Scholars Program

The KU School of Music Multicultural Scholars Program is a unique opportunity for undergraduate music majors from historically underrepresented backgrounds, including students of color, first-generation college students, and students with high financial needs. MSP Scholars in the School of Music receive a renewable scholarship, faculty mentorship, academic support, and a welcoming community. The KU School of Music is dedicated to nurturing and advancing the art of music through excellence in teaching, mentorship, creative endeavors, and research.

campanile at sunset

Diversity Fellows Program

The School of Music (SoM) Diversity Fellows Program supports four underrepresented (URM) or minority students to provide leadership and develop opportunities for the school, with a focus on diversity. Fellows work with faculty and staff in the DEIB Committee at the school level to identify and support academic and professional development needs, and provide resources, mentorship opportunities, and specialized programming for students across the school. Additional efforts will be made to sustain leadership funding awards and build a strong and supportive student community. For questions about the Diversity Fellows Program, please contact Anna Paradis.

Application Deadline is September 11, 2023

Murphy Hall

DEIB Student Organizations & Opportunities

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging (DEIB) Committee

The School of Music DEIB Committee is committed to inclusivity and action. The committee is made up of faculty, staff, and students who are responsible for developing the school's diversity goals and implementing the action(s) needed to make the school more diverse and inclusive. Please contact us to provide feedback or get involved.

Membership is appointed by the Associate Dean of DEIB. Appointed members serve for a term of two years. The committee will meet no less than twice a semester to oversee and discuss all relevant DEIB initiatives and matters related to the action plan within the School of Music. The committee recognizes that diversity is an evolving concept, which involves a variety of identities, perspectives, experiences, and actions. As such, we are committed to broadening our views and practices as they become vital to the mission of our School.
Contact DEIB Committee Members Contact DEIB Committee Members
Review DEIB Strategic Plan Review DEIB Strategic Plan

Music & DEIB Events

DEIB Resources at KU

aerial view of the KU Campanile with various walkways surrounding it

KU Resources for Students

Band members performing in from of campanile

Take Action to Build Inclusive Environments

It is important to report issues and seek advice in order for us to provide an equitable and safe environment that embraces and respects all people, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, disability status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, first-generation status, socio-economic status, citizenship status, national origin, and veteran status. We encourage you to connect with us, as well as others on campus to report issues and seek support.
Meet with KU Ombuds (Confidential Support) Meet with KU Ombuds (Confidential Support)
Report Bias, Discrimination, or Harassment to KU Civil Rights Office Report Bias, Discrimination, or Harassment to KU Civil Rights Office
Find Resources at the Sexual Assault Prevention and Education Center Find Resources at the Sexual Assault Prevention and Education Center