Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

For NACAC, diversity means making sure students of all backgrounds are represented in educational institutions.

For NACAC, equity means ensuring that all students have a chance to succeed and engage in postsecondary education.

For NACAC, inclusion means ensuring that those about whom decisions are made have a seat at the table.

NACAC’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is committed to raising the visibility of issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice in the association and the admission counseling profession. Our work is ever-evolving and we look forward to expanding our DEI efforts and providing support, resources, and programming to our members.

Online Resources

Community Conversation

Community Conversation webinars help to navigate through these polarized times and adapt to changing conditions.

DEI Resources

NACAC provides a helpful library of DEI related research, reports, and tools to help counselor and admission professionals with their mission.

In-Person Convenings

Guiding the Way to Impact

NACAC’s Guiding the Way to Impact (GWI) conference is aimed at college admission counseling professionals who are committed to championing the needs of students from a range of backgrounds as they go through the college admission process. The conference has evolved to empower professionals with the tools, strategies, and partnerships needed to navigate today’s challenges and make real, lasting change in college access and success for all students who aspire to higher education. Keynote speakers, education sessions, small group sessions, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities will provide avenues for both personal and professional growth. 

HBCU Advance

HBCU Advance is an initiative by NACAC aimed at highlighting the unique strengths, opportunities, and challenges of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) within the broader landscape of higher education. This program serves as a dedicated platform for college admission professionals, institutional leaders, and policymakers to engage in critical discussions on best practices, institutional success strategies, and innovative approaches that support equitable access to higher education.

Elevate Equity

Elevate Equity is a strategic initiative led by NACAC to advance equity-driven reforms in college admission policies and practices. This program is designed to convene higher education leaders, admission professionals, and key stakeholders to critically examine and implement systemic changes that promote greater access, diversity, and inclusion in postsecondary education.

Partnerships and Coalitions

Project Thrive Partnership with the Human Rights Campaign

Project THRIVE is a multi-year national campaign to create more equitable, inclusive support systems and communities for LGBTQ+ youth. Project THRIVE works to build the skills and capacities of all youth-serving professionals to better meet the needs of LGBTQ+ young people.

Facing the Future Together: FAQs, Guidance, and Resources

Supporting LGBTQ+ Students’ College Search

National DEI Defense Coalition

The National DEI Defense Coalition is comprised of hundreds of Americans who know the truth about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and policies in U.S. higher education. They are professors, researchers, culture practitioners, and administrators representing a wide range of geographic regions and institution types. Later this spring, the coalition will expand to include students from colleges and universities across the nation. A commitment to protecting students, employees, higher education institutions, and our democracy from the dangers of misinformation and disinformation about DEI unites coalition members.

Truths About DEI

Downloadable and Shareable Graphics

Support Inclusion Initiatives

At NACAC, inclusion is not just a guiding principle; it is central to our strategic priorities. Our initiatives focus on connecting and supporting marginalized students and college admission counseling professionals, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Your donations and partnerships are crucial in advancing this mission. By supporting NACAC, you enable us to:

  • Enhance current programming: Initiatives like HBCU Advance, the annual Guiding the Way to Inclusion (GWI) conference, and Elevate Equity convenings.
  • Develop new initiatives: Create and launch new programs that further our inclusion goals, providing necessary resources, staff, and guidance.
  • Catalyze change: Facilitate transformative change within the educational landscape, ensuring equitable access and inclusive practices.