Diversity at JBU
National and International Diversity on Campus
Diversity Statement
BASIS
John Brown University’s commitment to diversity and inclusiveness is based on the person and work of Jesus Christ which fulfills the covenant that God made with Abraham that through faith “all the families of the world will be blessed” (Gen. 12:3). Racial heritage, socio-economic status and gender should not divide those whose identity is grounded in Christ Jesus (Gal. 3:28).
The history of John Brown University reflects an intentional effort to include marginalized people. From its founding as an institution, women have been a part of the University faculty, staff and student body as equal partners with men in faith and work to provide higher education for the rural poor and other under-represented communities. Since the 1960s, the inclusion of international students and faculty, as well as ethnically diverse staff, students and faculty have intentionally and steadily enhanced the mission of the University.
AFFIRMATION
The Scripture of the Old and New Testament clearly affirms that all human beings are imprinted with the image of God (Gen. 1:26—28); we are therefore called to honor, cherish and respect one another. To acknowledge the sinfulness of humankind is to accept the historical reality that has often been manifested in “us-them” dynamics. This acknowledgment sharpens our commitment to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and informs the JBU community as it shapes university policies and practices. It is our hope that our community in its diversity will continue to mature (Philippians 1:6) and better reflect the reality of God’s good design and intention for humanity.
Office of Diversity
Committed to strengthening diversity on campus, JBU established the Office of Diversity, led by Dr. Ted Song, Chief Diversity Officer. The office, in conjunction with the Diversity Committee, coordinates various efforts on campus that encourage and celebrate the diversity of God’s kingdom.
Diversity Committee
The JBU Campus Diversity Planning Committee is devoted to cultivating a culturally inclusive environment where diversity of thought, experience and expression are valued, respected, welcomed and celebrated. The committee honors our diversity statement, serving as a campus resource to provide vision, information, advocacy and coordination for diversity-related events, activities, initiatives and discussions.
MOSAIC (Multicultural Organization of Students Active In Christ)
Multicultural Organization of Students Active In Christ (MOSAIC) is a student-led organization intended to create unity among the minority students on the JBU campus. Click here for more information.
CCCU Diversity Resources
The Council for Christian Colleges & Universities maintains a robust list of diversity-related resources for higher education. We encourage you to visit their site for more information.
