What is diversity?
"The art of thinking independently together" - Malcolm S. Forbes
Diversity is to respect, acknowledge and value each other's differences, and recognize them as unique traits from person to person.
What are the differences that make a person unique?
The differences are many, and that is why it is important to acknowledge the differences and make the effort to cross cultural boundaries so as to facilitate our daily interaction in the global village that we live in today.
Why is diversity important at AUC ?
AUC enjoys a diversity in its population (student body and workforce) that is not available to many other institutions. If we build on this population's diversity and cross barriers and boundaries, we will achieve an international living experience and learning environment.
Benefits of diversity:
- New insights and perspectives through learning and working in an international and multi-cultural environment.
- Personal empowerment and enhanced quality in the AUC student body and workforce by developing the skills needed for the diverse academic and work enviroments of the 21st century.
- A developed mutual understanding and interpersonal insipiration through multiculturalism.
- Access to a wider talent pool.
- Opportunity to develop overlooked talent.
Why is diversity important at AUC and what happens if we ignore it?
AUC's unique demographics make it a fertile ground for enjoying the benefits of diversity. If we build on this community's diversity by crossing barriers and boundaries, we will create an international atmosphere and a world-class learning environment.
If we ignore diversity, we run the risk of offensive behavior by dismissing the physical, cultural, geographic and religious differences of others and missing out on outstanding life-time experiences with other people.
AUCians need to depend on each other's uniqueness to provide support for enhancing the learning and working climate that sustains the wellbeing of all individuals -- and gives AUC its distinctive nature.
Diversity as stated in the mission of the American University in Cairo
The mission of the American University in Cairo is to provide quality higher and continuing education for students from Egypt and the region. The university is an independent, non-profit, apolitical, non-sectarian and equal opportunity institution. Dedicated to the ideals of American liberal arts and professional education, the university provides a broad spectrum of disciplines and learning opportunities, increases knowledge and promotes international understanding through scholarship and learned discourse. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in selected areas of importance to Egyptian society. The university is open to all ideas and the freedom of academic expression is fundamental to its mission. High standards of academic achievement, professional behavior and ethical conduct are expected of all members of the university community
AUC is committed to an environment of equal opportunity and affirmative action, as well as freedom from a hostile environment of discrimination or harassment in any from the equal opportunity and affirmative action office is your partner in achieving these goals.