Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

As a leading graduate institution of contemporary art and design, The Yale School of Art recognizes its responsibility, privilege, and opportunity to contribute to culture and creativity in society at large. The School commits to uphold principles of anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion as integral to its mission, and will work towards achieving an educational environment that rejects inequity, advances social justice, and amplifies historically underrepresented voices.

The current enrolled School of Art population identifies as 62% students of color, the highest percentage among Yale’s professional schools. 18.25% identify as gender non-binary, non-confirming, or transgender, and the international student population is 29%. We aim to realize a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable future for our School that assures accountability to our espoused values and principles of belonging for all students, faculty, staff, and alumni. This mission-critical unit plan requires Yale to confront violent histories upon which our institution continues to benefit.

First year actions in the plan focused on bettering the experience within the academic/curricular, administrative, and student life engagements; expanding learning and training opportunities for faculty and staff; and creation/approval of a dedicated full time Director of Sustainable Equity and Inclusion position to serve the School. In year two the School will conduct the nationwide search for the Director while continuing to rebuild community and implement actions from the DEIB Plan. Where possible, hires for open faculty and staff positions will be focused on increased diversity, an over-arching goal of the multi-year plan.

Current members of the Yale SoA Campus Community are welcome and encouraged to view the DEIB Plan, Year 3 HERE >> and the School of Art’s “Belonging at Yale” Year 3 infographic HERE >>

Previous years’ plans and progress are accessible via the links below. Per Yale, detailed plans are accessible via CAS login to those with an active Yale NetID only.