A History of Inclusion

You may know Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. But did you know that Dr. King developed his message of peace and inclusion while pursuing his PhD in theology at Boston University? BU has a rich history of diversity. The University was the first to open all its divisions to women, graduating the first black female physician, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, and awarding the first ever PhD to a woman, Helen Magill. The University also welcomed the first black dean, Howard Thurman, to a majority-white university. This culture of inclusion thrives on campus today. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are an integral component of our campus community, and we strive to support, and encourage our students to feel comfortable sharing their own experiences and identities to strengthen the BU community.

Diversity on Campus

Boston University is committed to building a community where all individuals feel valued and empowered to contribute. Our campus is home to students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, geographic locations, gender identities and expressions, socioeconomic statuses, sexual orientations, religions, abilities, and more. This range of perspectives and experiences enriches campus life, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment where students can thrive.  

We prioritize creating an environment where diverse identities are recognized and celebrated, and where the value of learning across differences is embedded in our community, driving meaningful action and strengthening campus culture. Our initiatives, such as the Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground, Newbury Center for first-generation students, LGBTQIA+ Student Resources, and student organizations like Alianza Latina, NSCBE, and the Center for Gender, Sexuality, & Activism, reflect our commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive community. By fostering connections across differences, we work collaboratively to address the challenges facing society today. 

Student Ambassadors

Admissions Student Diversity Board

In addition to serving as Student Ambassadors, members of ASDB work with our staff to strengthen diversity among students on campus.

Learn More About ASDB Hear ASDB Student Stories

Diversity in the Classroom

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  • Fadie Coleman

    Metcalf Award winner Fadie Coleman’s years teaching middle and high school informs her teaching today in a joint School of Medicine/Metropolitan College program.

  • Anthony Abraham Jack

    As associate professor of higher education leadership in the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development and faculty director of BU's Newbury Center, Anthony Abraham Jack is leading the way to create more inclusive college campuses for first-generation students and scholars of color.

  • Lucy Hutyra

    In collaboration with her BU colleagues and students, MacArthur "genius" Lucy Hutyra is unearthing new insights about urban environments, how they influence trees and the carbon cycle, and how our ecosystems can be even more sustainable.

  • Steve Ramirez

    Steve Ramirez (CAS’10), a CAS assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences, is commended by students for his listen-first approach. In awarding him this year’s top teaching award, the judges wrote that he “presents information in a way that students say is impossible to forget, using personal stories, videos, and pop-culture references they can relate to.”

Campus Resources

Diversity at BU

Other resources:

Culture & Diversity

LGBTQ+

Student Life

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You’ve seen a glimpse of the incredible experiences awaiting you at BU. Now, take the next step. Because at BU, the sky’s the limit.