At the Information School, IDEAS — Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Sovereignty — is not a side initiative; it is a commitment to how we learn, teach, research and serve. We aim to cultivate a community where every voice is heard, everyone is valued, and every learner can thrive. IDEAS is woven throughout the iSchool — embedded in curriculum, supported through events and partnerships, and reflected in our commitment to justice, belonging and making information work for everyone.

How we define IDEAS

Inclusion: A Community of Belonging
Inclusion is the intentional creation of environments where all individuals feel a genuine sense of belonging, are respected for their identities and experiences, and are empowered to participate meaningfully in decision-making and community life.  

Diversity: Championing Difference
Diversity is the presence and celebration of differences across identities, cultures, perspectives, and experiences that enrich our communities and institutions.

Equity: Creating Opportunity
Equity is the ongoing practice of identifying and dismantling barriers to ensure fair treatment, access, opportunity, and outcomes for all, especially those historically marginalized.

Access: Designing for Everyone
Access is the commitment to removing physical, mental, structural, cultural, and informational barriers so that all individuals can fully participate in and benefit from opportunities, regardless of ability or background.

Sovereignty: Respecting Indigenous Ways of Knowing
Sovereignty is the inherent right of Indigenous nations to self-govern, maintain their cultural practices, and define their own systems of knowledge, in accordance with treaties, laws, and traditions.

IDEAS at a Glance

Events & Gatherings

IDEAS hosts inclusive gatherings that create space for dialogue, reflection, and celebration of diverse communities  and experiences.
 

Collaboration & Partnership

Through partnerships with students, faculty, staff, and external organizations, IDEAS amplifies collective efforts to advance equity and justice at the iSchool and beyond.

Processes & Systems

IDEAS works to revise and refine  processes to ensure they are equitable, transparent, and accountable to the communities they serve.
 

Communications & Visibility

We maintain clear, consistent, and accessible communications to keep our community informed and engaged with IDEAS best practices and initiatives.

Knowledge Building

We generate and share research and resources that support inclusive pedagogy, leadership, and professional development across the iSchool.

Joy & Well-Being

We foreground wellness, joy, and growth to model the inclusive and supportive culture we strive to build.