Our Impact: Overview

Beyond rhetoric

The Office for Inclusive Excellence (OIE) at Colorado State University works diligently to elevate diversity, equity and inclusion beyond buzzwords. Our common goals focus on creating impact that makes a difference. OIE works to develop a strong sense of belonging for faculty, staff and students. Together, we work to ensure our community thrives.
Kauline bio pic

From the VP of Inclusive Excellence

“In the pursuit of a community where every individual not only belongs but flourishes, our efforts extend beyond mere inclusion. Here, we actively dismantle barriers and cultivate spaces that champion diversity in every form. Our mission is personal; it's a shared commitment to nurturing a campus that reflects the world's rich tapestry. Through strategic initiatives and a culture of continuous learning, we are not just reacting to the need for change — we are leading it, embedding equity in every action, and inviting every member of our family to play a part in this vital journey. It is here, at the intersection of education and equity, that we redefine excellence for the 21st century and beyond.” — Kauline Cipriani, Vice President of Inclusive Excellence

Building on a history-making start

CSU has a longstanding tradition of focus on diversity, from having a woman in its first graduating class to PROJECT GO, which created what has become the University’s cultural and resource centers.
1884
Pioneering Graduates & Diversity at CSU

CSU's first graduating class in 1884 included Libbie Coy, a college instructor and pillar of the community. Today, diversity remains a top priority for the University.

1960s
Homecoming Royalty Firsts

Today, CSU Homecoming highlights the University's PACESETTERS. But royalty of the past included Trudi Morrison as CSU's first Black Homecoming Queen (Joe Rogers, who later became Deputy Governor for Colorado, was the first Black Homecoming King in the 1980s).

1960s
Vivian Kerr Named First Director

Kerr, a former CSU athlete, led protests that led to creation of Project GO, Black Student Services and El Centro. The office gained visibility beyond CSU and Fort Collins under Kerr's leadership.

1964
Supporting Diverse Students

In 1964, PROJECT GO aimed to help diverse and low-income students by providing academic support and financial aid to encourage them to pursue higher education.

1970
Creation of Office of Women's Relations

CSU establishes the Office of Women's Relations to address women's concerns and provide a contemporary office in response to the Women's Liberation Movement and restructuring of Student Personnel Services.

1973
Federal Americans with Disabilities Act

ADA compliance mandates equal access and opportunities for people with disabilities, including accessible facilities and communications, by employers and businesses.

1977
Compliance to Section 504 Begins

The Student Relations Department became responsible for ensuring compliance with the University's federal obligations for student needs under Section 504.

1979
Established, then led by Estrada

Following Abel Amaya's term as the Acting Director of Project GO's Chicano Student Services Program, Lawrence J. Estrada served as the director from its establishment in 1979 to 1989​.

1979
Group Advocacy Program created

PROJECT GO became Group Advocacy Program with 5 offices: El Centro/Chicano Student Services, Black Student Services, Native American Student Services, Disabled Students Programs & Women’s Programs.

In 1884, Elizabeth Coy Lawrence was one of three graduates in the University’s first graduating class. Today, we continue the work established on this foundation, making diversity a top University priority for the future.
full timeline

Progressive Impact

Faculty and staff support are foundational for us to properly serve all Colorado State students. From 2020-2023 alone, nearly 21,000 have participated in our diversity certificate program called the “Creating Inclusive Excellence Program (CIEP).” This 21-hour certificate program helps develop awareness, knowledge and skills regarding diversity, equity and inclusion at Colorado State. The program’s impact is widespread throughout the University.

Nurturing students every day

So many topics make up the overarching theme of diversity – from employee perceptions and campus climate, to DEI trainings, educating on the value of pronouns and more. At the heart of it all? Our Students.
A group od APACC students posing together
BAACC students posing together on the steps outside
Someone from El Centro teaching dance moves to a group of students
NACC students in front of a CSU building
Pride students holding a CSU Pride flag together outside
SDC front desk photo
WGAC students outside at a table

Diverse stories

Since the 1960s, Colorado State has made concerted efforts to support diverse students in meaningful ways. 
We are collecting stories and will share the outcomes of those efforts – past and present.

SHARE YOUR STORY