Recognition and Engagement Initiatives
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Office at the School of Foreign Service (SFS) is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive environment.
Our recognition and engagement initiatives embody our values by celebrating the diverse contributions of our community members. These initiatives aim to enhance connections, motivate collaboration and honor the achievements that drive our commitment to building a more inclusive, just and caring academic environment.
Awards and grants
Community in Diversity Awards
The Community in Diversity Awards recognize members of the SFS community who demonstrate exceptional commitment to building a more inclusive, just and caring academic environment. Launched in 2022, these awards honor the students, staff, faculty and programs whose work advances equity, accessibility, belonging and the dignity of all people—reflecting Georgetown’s Jesuit values in action.
Program overview
Each spring, the School of Foreign Service honors individuals and groups whose leadership strengthens our shared commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and well-being. Through these awards, we uplift those who advance justice, foster care across difference and create meaningful impact in global affairs and campus life.
Award categories
- SFS Individual Leader Awards celebrate staff who embody Cura Personalis—showing profound care and responsibility for others by attending to their unique challenges, gifts and lived experiences to support their flourishing and sense of belonging.
- SFS Pathbreaking Program Awards recognize offices, units and programs that advance initiatives serving the common good, promote justice and respond generously to the needs of the broader community.
Eligibility
- Open to current SFS students, staff, faculty and community members
- Individuals may receive an individual award once every four years
- Past group awardees remain eligible for individual recognition
- Self-nominations are welcome, the SFS Dean’s Office may also nominate honorees
Nomination process
To submit a nomination, complete the nomination form by the published deadline each spring.
Nominations should clearly demonstrate how the nominee or program has:
- Advanced DEI, antiracism, belonging or accessibility
- Shown leadership, creativity or innovation in promoting equity
- Created a measurable or lasting impact in our community
SFS Student DEI Grant Program
The SFS Student DEI Grant Program provides funding to support student-led efforts that build a stronger sense of belonging and promote equity within the SFS community. The program includes two funding opportunities, one for student organizations and one for individual SFS students, each designed to help bring impactful ideas to life.
Program overview
This grant supports programs and opportunities that advance the core values of diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism and civil discourse. Students may apply for:
- Student Organization Support: Funding, co-sponsorship or promotional assistance for events and programs that promote community, collaboration and dialogue across identities.
- Individual Student Support: Funding for SFS students to attend or present at DEI-related conferences, conduct identity-centered research or participate in leadership and justice-focused opportunities.
Priority is given to proposals that center historically underrepresented voices and align with the DEI goals outlined in our strategic plan.
Eligibility
- Student organizations must be registered through the Center for Student Engagement and listed on CampusGroups.
- Individual applicants must be currently enrolled SFS students in good academic standing.
- Activities must occur during the academic year; summer activities are considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Students may only receive individual funding once per academic year.
Application process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted. We recommend applying at least one month in advance for organizations and two months in advance for individual opportunities.
To apply, complete the relevant application form and email cd1271@georgetown.edu once submitted.
Committees on diversity and inclusion
Dean’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Council
The Dean’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Council comprises faculty, staff, alumni and students who serve as trusted advisors to the SFS dean. Meeting twice a year, the council provides valuable feedback on current programs, evaluates new initiatives and offers recommendations to shape the future of community in diversity at SFS.
The council is dedicated to ensuring that the school remains a welcoming, supportive environment for all members of our community, particularly those from underrepresented groups. Its work is central to advancing our goals and implementing the initiatives laid out in our strategic plan.
The University Leadership Council on Diversity and Inclusion in International Affairs Education
The University Leadership Council (ULC) brings together deans and directors from leading U.S. graduate schools in international affairs and public policy to promote collaboration and shared accountability among academic leaders committed to inclusive global education.
Overview
The University Leadership Council on Diversity and Inclusion in International Affairs was founded in 2018 by Carla Koppell, vice dean for diversity, equity and inclusion at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. Chaired by Koppell, the council serves as a collaborative network for senior academic leaders to exchange strategies, share best practices and strengthen institutional approaches to advancing diversity and inclusion in international affairs education.
The ULC continues to convene discussions that focus on curriculum, culture and representation within global affairs programs. The Volcker Alliance provides coordination and facilitation support for the council’s ongoing initiatives.
Related works
Research on diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education
Research summaries examine DEI-related issues in curricula, in campus culture and in the diversity of the faculty, students and staff.