Commitment to diversity

Trinity is among 110 higher education institutions nationwide—and the only one from Connecticut—to receive the 2023 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award, which recognizes the College as a leader in advancing the core values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“This is a remarkable achievement that underscores and celebrates our community’s commitment to the core values of diversity and inclusion,” said Trinity President Joanne Berger-Sweeney. “I’m extremely grateful for the progress we’ve been able to make to foster a more welcoming and representative environment and for the effort that so many have given to champion this work. This recognition is certainly a moment of pride for the College.”

The publishers of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, which issues the award, noted the honor is a tribute to higher education institutions that effectively encourage and inspire a new generation of diverse students to succeed.

The recognition arrives five years after Trinity launched its Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and named Anita Davis its inaugural vice president. “Through multiyear interventions, we are creating an inclusive environment,” said Davis. “Partnerships throughout the College ensure we all own this as an important goal.”

In applying for the HEED Award, Trinity provided a rigorous accounting of policies, strategies, programs, initiatives, demographics, and protocols. The Task Force on Campus Climate created an Action Plan for Racial Justice, which captured more than 250 actions identified by departments, programs, and groups to move the campus along the path to becoming a more racially and socially just community.

Trinity also integrated DEI principles into faculty and staff search processes. A recent special opportunity hiring initiative increased faculty of color from 21 percent in 2019 to 35 percent in 2023. The College increased staff of color from 20 percent in 2019 to 30 percent in 2023.

At the same time, Trinity continues to strengthen diversity and inclusion through modifications to the employee application process, through the onboarding process, and through continuing staff development, according to Michelle Cabral, associate vice president for human resources.

In the past decade, the College has increased by 50 percent financial aid for undergraduate students, enriching the socioeconomic, racial, and international diversity of the student body.