Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At Hamilton, we embrace diversity, commit to work against systemic racism and bigotry, and support a community where all individuals, without exception, feel valued, empowered, and treated fairly.
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Creating Community
Hamilton is continually striving to make further progress through action, change, and growth.
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College Programs & Services
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Days-Massolo Center
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Hamilton’s aspirations to offer an inclusive academic experience trace back to our founding in 1793 as the Hamilton-Oneida Academy, created to educate children of the Oneida Nation alongside those of the settlers relocating to the region after the American Revolution. After it was chartered as Hamilton College in 1812, our community on the Hill welcomed its first Chinese student and celebrated its first African American graduate before the century’s end. A men’s college from its beginning, Hamilton established a sister institution — Kirkland College — in 1968. The two merged a decade later, making Hamilton coeducational.
Records confirm that none of these transitions was easy. There were failures and moments of contention. However, College leaders persisted, and we are better today because of those eager to facilitate and embrace change.
This work is ongoing. Everyone at Hamilton has a role in creating a nurturing environment and ensuring our community is a welcoming and inclusive one where every voice matters and every person thrives.
Sean Bennett
Vice President, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
What We Value
Our mission to prepare students for lives of meaning, purpose, and active citizenship is inextricably tied to our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Serious intellectual inquiry and informed engagement with our ever-changing world depend on open dialogue among people with differing perspectives and values, and from different backgrounds.
The work of achieving an inclusive, equitable community is of paramount importance. Hamilton is continually striving to make further progress through positive action, change, and growth.
Some members of our community feel that they are not treated equitably due to their race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, physical ability, religion, socioeconomic status, or other factors. That’s not acceptable. At Hamilton, we celebrate diversity in all forms because our community benefits from the perspectives we share and the mutual respect we show one another. An appreciation for our differences connects us and is essential to providing the best education possible.
We have work to do to be the community we aim to be. The College has made it a priority to develop and execute a comprehensive plan of action to effect sustainable, meaningful change in the short- and long-term. An Advisory Council, with broad representation, recommended further courses of sustainable action, informed by careful listening sessions with individuals and groups.
Work With Us
Building a community where everyone feels included, valued, and respected will take consistent effort from each one of us. We must all listen. We must elevate underrepresented voices. We must speak up against inequity, systemic racism, and bigotry. Through the Speak Up initiative, we encourage you to share your ideas with us.
