Office of Inclusive Excellence

Who We Are

The Office of Inclusive Excellence is dedicated to fostering a campus community “where everyone belongs, where excellence thrives.” We support the successful transition, engagement, and persistence of historically underrepresented communities — such as Asian/Pacific Islander, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and Multiracial students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and first-generation college students — as they navigate their college journey.

Through educational outreach, collaborative initiatives, and culturally rich
programming, the Office of Inclusive Excellence aims to create a welcoming and empowering environment for all. By strengthening connections across campus, we help foster a deep understanding of different perspectives and experiences. As students explore these perspectives, they are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys, grow as individuals, and contribute to a more vibrant and accepting University community.

Inclusivity

We work to ensure that all students feel welcome, valued, and empowered to succeed. It’s the lifeblood of the office, fostering a sense of belonging.

Advocacy

Whether we’re advocating for students, staff or faculty, we want to make sure everyone is heard. Advocacy underscores the proactive role the office takes in pushing for systemic change both within and beyond the university’s walls. It’s about being the voice for those who’ve been historically silenced or marginalized.

Empowerment

Empowerment is about giving students the tools they need to succeed, not just academically but also personally and socially. Empowerment turns the transient college years into a launching pad for lifelong success.

Hometown Scholars

The ��ý��Ƶ Hometown Scholars Program (BUHSP), is a groundbreaking initiative exclusively designed for students who attend high school in Peoria or neighboring cities. Our program seeks to bridge the educational and financial gaps that can stand between hard-working students and their dream of a college education. We won’t only unlock doors for you; we’ll walk you through them with the support of the staff from our Office of Inclusive Excellence. We offer an enriched support system, from a low counselor-to-student ratio to an array of academic services, ensuring you’re not just attending college but excelling in it.

Must attend and graduate from East Peoria High School, Limestone High School, Manual High School, Pekin High School, Peoria High School, or Richwoods High School
Have a minimum 3.25 GPA
Have applied and been admitted to ��ý��Ƶ
Belong to an underrepresented population at ��ý��Ƶ
Have demonstrated financial need and filed the FAFSA

Programs

Held during the first week of November, National First-Gen
Week is a time to celebrate, empower, and honor the achievements of first-generation college students — those who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.

During this special week, the Office of Inclusive Excellence hosts a range of events designed to highlight and celebrate our first-gen community’s rich contributions to campus life. From workshops and panel discussions to networking sessions and social events, these initiatives foster a sense of unity, recognition, and support for first-gen students, their journeys, and their future successes.

Held each April, Senior Sendoff is a festive celebration honoring our graduating undergraduate and graduate seniors. It’s a chance to come together, reflect on achievements, and celebrate the journey you’ve made — from your first days on campus to this proud milestone. This event features food, raffles, live music, and more, creating a fun and lively atmosphere for graduates to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories with friends and fellow graduates. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy your last chance of childhood before adulthood awaits!

Through peer mentorship, the NextGen Mentorship Program
offers focused guidance through programming, workshops and student organization collaboration – helping students leverage the myriad of resources ��ý��Ƶ offers, from academic support to career counseling, ensuring they don’t just navigate but thrive during their college journey.

APPLY Visit/TOUR request information

Additional Links

��ý��Ƶ Hall 226
(309) 677-2646
diversity@bradley.edu
Monday – Friday
10:00 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Connect with Us.

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