Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW–Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. UW–Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background — people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.


Numerous resources relevant to diversity, equity, and inclusion are provided by the University, College of Engineering, and CBE Department. A list of relevant resources with links is available here. More information is also available on the website for the UW Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In addition, a large number of mental health services are available to students to ensure student well-being.


CBE students participate in a number of organizations that foster community for students from historically excluded or underrepresented groups. A notable example is the Graduate Engineering Research Scholars (GERS) program, a fellowship program that offers underrepresented students a support network of peers, professional development, and mentorship opportunities.


CBE faculty and students also engage in activities to broaden participation in research, particularly for students from underrepresented groups. Examples include mentored summer research through the Research Experiences for Undergradutes (REU) and Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE), demonstrations at the annual Engineering Expo and Wisconsin Science Festival, and interacting with local K-12 students through the SCIENCountErs program. Outreach activities benefit from the leadership of Dr. Andrew Greenberg, a CBE faculty associate with expertise in engineering education and research mentorship.