Fostering an Inclusive Community

Diversity and inclusion are core values of the UW–Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS). We strive to make our climate the best it can be for all students, faculty and staff, and we are committed to offering an excellent learning and work environment.

To that end, the CALS leadership team fully supports the UW–Madison’s institutional statement on diversity. We believe diversity is a source of strength, creativity and innovation for campus, and we value and respect what each person brings to the table, including faculty, staff and students from historically underrepresented groups. At CALS, we acknowledge that bias, prejudice, racism and hate have historically occurred in many forms that cause significant and lasting harm to members of our community. We commit to taking actions each day toward a college that is inclusive and welcoming to all. Learn more about the CALS commitment to end racism and hate.

We all share the responsibility of making this a welcoming and inclusive environment, and we encourage community members to challenge themselves to get engaged and better understand the issues. Below are links to CALS and campus resources related to diversity and inclusion efforts:

Resources for CALS faculty/staff


The CALS Equity and Diversity Committee (EDC) leads many of the college’s diversity and inclusion efforts. Announcements about EDC-led events and activities are posted in eCALS, as are college-led events/activities.

Campus resources


UW–Madison’s Creating Community website is a clearinghouse of information about diversity and inclusion efforts at the campus level. The site has news, events, resources and other information.

Resources for CALS students


The CALS Office of Academic Affairs strives to be a leader in preparing students to be culturally competent global citizens, and is committed to serving and supporting all students to help them get the most out of their UW experience. Visit the office’s Student Resources for more information related to diversity and inclusion.

CALS diversity news


Search begins for a chief diversity officer for the college, July 12, 2021

CALS Climate Survey summary report available, Jun 16, 2021

Dean VandenBosch responds to requests from Equity and Diversity Committee, Dec 21, 2020