Colby recently adopted a statement on diversity and uses the term "diverse" to describe the kind of community we are working to develop and to maintain. Our definition of what constitutes diversity undoubtedly will change over time, but we remain committed to an inclusive campus community.

Recent diversity efforts sustain a tradition that began in 1813, when the College's founders guaranteed religious freedom in the original charter. Colby led most of its peers in admitting women and people of color in the 19th century. The College pioneered academic programs that seek to understand diversity through offerings such as African-American, East Asian, and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality studies. More recent additions to the curriculum are programs in Latin American studies, Indigenous Peoples of the Americas, and African studies. Courses are offered that address the experience of lesbian and gay individuals.

The College has made strides in the last decade in recruiting a more diverse population, and Colby continues to pay close attention to the ways its community can become a more inclusive home for students of various races and ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and nationalities.

The long-range, strategic "Plan for Colby," adopted by the Board of Trustees in 2002, states that "The goal of becoming a more diverse community cuts across all areas of the College and is embodied in every part of our strategic thinking." Diversity is a top priority of President William Adams, and it is a goal embraced by senior administrators, members of the faculty, and the staff. There are detailed plans not only for implementation of diversity initiatives but also for assessment of our success.