Inclusive Community
At Johnson & Wales University, we believe that a welcoming, inclusive community is essential to student success, innovation and academic excellence.
Our University Commitment
Since our founding by Gertrude Johnson and Mary T. Wales — before women had secured the right to vote — we have embraced the idea that opportunity and education should be accessible to all.
Today, we are committed to fostering a campus culture where every member of our community feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute. Across our Providence and Charlotte Campuses, we celebrate the many experiences, perspectives and identities that strengthen our university.
Our commitment extends beyond representation. Through academic programs, student organizations, co-curricular experiences, professional development and campus initiatives, we work to create an environment where every student, faculty member, staff member and alumnus can learn, lead and thrive. Johnson & Wales University is committed to advancing equity, promoting belonging and continually strengthening an inclusive community where diverse perspectives are welcomed, respectful dialogue is encouraged and every Wildcat has the opportunity to succeed.
Looking for community?
The best way to find your people is to get involved on campus. That could look like attending campus traditions, joining a club or student organization, playing a club sport or volunteering.
Providence Campus Cultural Program of the Year
The Cultural Program of the Year award recognizes a program that promotes cultural diversity, inclusion and global awareness on the JWU Providence Campus. It honors an organization that has been innovative in the development, implementation and delivery of a successful program.
- 2024: Diwali, Little India
- 2023: Lunar New Year; Cooking Asia
- 2022: Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity
- 2021: Black History 101: Mobile Museum; Black Student Alliance, University Involvement Board, National Panhellenic Council
- 2020: MLK Teach-In; Alpha Phi Alpha
- 2019: Dashain; Namaste Nepal
- 2017: Raices Week; Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc.
- 2016: World Carnival; Cultural Connections Club
- 2015: Diversity at the University: “Dear White People” screening and discussion; University Involvement Board
- 2014: Kwanzaa; Black Student Alliance and Groove Phi Groove
University Resources
Accessibility Services
- JWU provides reasonable accommodations to students with learning disabilities, physical challenges and chronic medical conditions to succeed in their academic pursuits.
The Bridge
- The Bridge advances a universitywide culture of inclusion, safety and belonging by supporting all members of the JWU community. It serves as a hub for connection, resources, programming and training.
Equity & Compliance
- The Office of Institutional Equity upholds the university’s mission and guiding principles. This office oversees the university’s efforts to comply with Title IX and federal and state laws prohibiting illegal discrimination and harassment.