Access, Engagement, and Belonging

Access, Engagement, and Belonging Mission at the College of Nursing:

At the College of Nursing, we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical to fulfill our commitment to improving the health of communities, families, and individuals. We recognize individuals have multiple identities that affect their perceptions and experiences. We value the intersectionality of these identities, which may include race, ethnicity, gender identity and/or expression, age, religion, nationality, culture, perspective, ability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Including and engaging a community of students, faculty, and staff that reflects the diversity of our local, national, and global society is essential to the success of the mission of the College of Nursing.

Our commitment requires us to examine both individual and systemic factors affecting diversity, equity and inclusion in the learning environment and broader community. As catalysts for optimizing health through nurse-led care, we cultivate and empower a diverse body of nursing leaders who have the tools needed to build a more equitable, healthier society. We seek and nurture partnerships with individuals and organizations that promote diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the state of Tennessee, nationally, and globally.

Priorities of the College of Nursing
2022 Diversity Action Plan

PRIORITY ONE

Recruit and retain a diverse undergraduate student population in the nursing program to prepare our students to serve the diverse patient population of the state of Tennessee and the nation.

PRIORITY TWO

Ensure that curricular requirements meet national accreditation and nursing education standards, including consideration of intercultural perspectives to achieve inclusive excellence in holistic nursing education that align with 21st-century nursing workforce needs.

PRIORITY THREE

Promote the development of a Volunteer spirit of leadership and service by creating and sustaining a culture of collaboration that supports student needs and success.

PRIORITY FOUR

Create an environment that promotes one’s ability to be true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character among faculty, staff, and students within the college to enhance a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive college climate.