Texas Tech Honored with Second Annual Diversity Award

Texas Tech University is one of 56 institutions of higher learning nationally and one of two Texas schools to receive the second annual Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

“Texas Tech University strives for inclusivity as we enable students to reach their academic potential,” said M. Duane Nellis, Texas Tech president. “This award reflects efforts and successes in the area of diversity. I am confident that it indicates our commitment to attracting students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances and providing a supportive educational experience.”

According to the November issue, the HEED Award recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that have exceptional strategies and programs to help them achieve diversity and inclusion across campus. Schools were selected based on the institution’s initiatives to promote diversity efforts, including race and ethnicity, gender, age, veteran status, people from LGBT communities, people with disabilities and other areas of human diversity.

“Texas Tech University is dedicated to creating an environment that allows all members of the university community to be academically and professionally successful,” the magazine reports. “Through a focus on inclusive excellence, the university prepares faculty, staff and students to be ethical leaders in a diverse and globally competitive world. This focus has led to recognition by many prestigious groups, including Education Trust, Hispanic Outlook, Best Colleges website, and of course, INSIGHT Into Diversity.”

Juan Muñoz, senior vice president for institutional diversity, equity and community engagement, was recognized on the front cover of the November issue and contributed an article about the importance of chief diversity officers. He said Texas Tech remains committed to the success of students from all backgrounds, experiences and income levels.

“We are very proud to have received the HEED Award again this year,” Muñoz said. “This recognition demonstrates once more that Texas Tech’s commitment to an inclusive campus is in keeping with the highest national standards of access, equity and excellence.”

For more information about the HEED award, visit INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine’s website at www.insightintodiversity.com.