Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement
MISSION STATEMENT
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) serves its members, students, and society through advocacy for the value and independence of accreditation, recognition of accrediting organizations and commitment to quality in higher education.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY and INCLUSION
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a non-profit service organization, cultivates and supports an environment that demonstrates appreciation for and values the diversity of its institutions of higher education, accreditors, board and staff, and all who are served by these groups. We believe that life experiences and heritages of these groups contribute to the richness of CHEA’s policies, procedures, and daily operations.
CHEA’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusiveness guides its mission and its support for equitable treatment for institutions of higher education, families and students.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) are rooted in the cultural identity and lexicon of a civil society. However, in 2020, these words became aggressively polarizing among groups in America. Along with polarization, Americans either became fearful of their neighbors, separated from those who were different or they moved to a new awakening that there is much work to be done to reaffirm that America is indeed one nation, with liberty and justice for all.
CHEA believes in justice for all and supports the rights of every person to pursue their course of happiness in a just society. Colleges and universities are the bedrocks of change and foster free thinking, individualism and freedom of just the simple right to “be.”
CHEA’s commitment to higher education, families, students, and other communities is grounded in the assurance of academic quality. We believe that the rich values of diversity, equity and inclusion are inextricably linked to quality assurance in higher education. Additionally, CHEA affirms that diversity, equity, and inclusion contribute to student success; and, that student success contributes to a better, healthier, and more enlightened, progressive society.
Adopted by the CHEA Board of Directors – May 3, 2021