Elements of the Model
The model begins with raising institutional awareness of diversity, equity and inclusion concerns, opportunities and improvement needs. It builds on this greater awareness by developing individuals’ skills to work on the concerns and opportunities while, at the same time, aligning policies, processes and procedures in ways that better reflect diversity, equity and inclusion goals. This creates institutional norms and reinforcers that contribute to the goal of truly broadening institutional access—i.e., in ways that reflect abundant representation of groups and cultures that make up the nation and society; that promote a welcoming climate and feelings of inclusion, value, and community for all; and that enable equitable opportunities for thriving and success.
U-M DEI Institutional Change Model
Fundamentally, the U-M DEI Strategic Plan is attempting to shift the culture around DEI at Michigan. The institutional model guiding our strategic plan represents our theory of change, including key elements fundamental for achieving the cultural transformation we seek.
Raise Institutional Awareness
It begins with raising institutional awareness around DEI concerns, opportunities and improvement needs, including the experiences of different communities.
Enhance Individual Skills & Capacities
It builds on this greater awareness by developing individuals’ skills to work on these concerns and opportunities.
Align Policy, Procedures & Processes
At the same time, it focuses not just on individuals but on aligning systemic policies, processes and procedures in ways that better reflect DEI values and goals.
Create Cultural Norms & Reinforcers
Sustained engagement in these efforts then create cultural norms and reinforcers that contribute to the goal of truly broadening institutional access.
Broaden Institutional Access
Broadening institutional access, in ways that reflect abundant representation of the groups and cultures that make up the nation and society; that promote a welcoming climate and feelings of inclusion, value, and community for all; and that enable equitable opportunities for thriving and success.
Cultural Transformation
This model reflects our theory of change. It has guided our work, and ALL elements are fundamental for achieving the institutional change that we seek.