Binghamton University has been awarded the 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from *INSIGHT Into Diversity* magazine. This national recognition honors U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Binghamton University will be highlighted among 114 award recipients in the November/December 2024 issue of the magazine, marking this as the fourth consecutive year the institution has received this honor.
University’s Commitment to Diversity
The vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion at Binghamton, Karen Jones, stated that the award reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to cultivate a community that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The HEED Award is viewed as a significant recognition of the commitment shown by the entire Binghamton community.
Comprehensive Initiatives and Key Programs
The selection by *INSIGHT Into Diversity* magazine underscores the university’s comprehensive initiatives to promote diversity and equity on campus. Key programs include the Watson College Scholars Program and the School of Management’s Transformational Leaders Program, which offer academic and professional development opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, Binghamton University has received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on the National Campus Pride Index for its efforts in creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Equitable Recruitment Practices
To improve diversity among faculty and staff, Binghamton University has implemented equitable recruitment practices and supports various affinity groups for underrepresented populations. The president of Binghamton University, Harvey Stenger, stated that the award signifies the institution’s dedication to being a welcoming community.
HEED Award Selection Process
Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of *INSIGHT Into Diversity*, explained that the selection process for the HEED Award involves a rigorous examination of factors including student and faculty recruitment and retention, community partnerships, and support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Institutions recognized with this award are acknowledged as leaders in promoting best practices for diversity.
Other Award Recipients in SUNY System
Binghamton University joins several other institutions from the State University of New York (SUNY) system that received the HEED Award in 2024, including Farmingdale State College, Rockland Community College, Stony Brook University, SUNY Old Westbury, SUNY Oneonta, and the University at Albany, SUNY.
(Source: Binghamton University News)