Diversity at Iona
Iona University strives to be a diverse community of learners and scholars dedicated to academic excellence in the tradition of the Christian Brothers and American Catholic higher education. We commit ourselves to education within the rich heritage of these legacies, especially intellectual inquiry and the values of justice, peace and service. Inherent in the Mission of Iona University is a commitment to diversity.
Therefore, the University seeks to promote, embrace and celebrate an open and inclusive environment for all members of our community. A goal of Iona University is to foster an understanding, appreciation, and valuing of diversity. It holds that diversity should permeate all areas and aspects of Iona University in ways that demonstrate its institutional commitment to multicultural diversity.
As an inclusive institution, Iona University welcomes its faculty, student body, administration, staff and alumni associations to learn, grow and share their worldviews in a constructive manner. We recognize that diversity enriches the educational environment by fostering respect for differences, stimulating innovative teaching and learning, and preparing students to live and work in a global society.
On-Campus Accessibility
Various campus departments work with persons with disabilities to make the campus accessible. Campus visitors with disabilities who need accommodations or auxiliary aids, and services are encouraged to contact the office or department hosting the event to make such arrangements and accessibility services.
How did Black History Month Begin?
While we recognize that the first Black History Month took place in 1970, its origins can be traced back to 1922, when Carter G. Woodson ran Associated Publishers. According to this article from The New York Times, his publishing house was a major factor in preserving Black American culture and history.

Carter G. Woodson
Organizations, Additional Resources and More
Diversity Organizations
- Bailando Con Sazon
- Black Student Union (BSU)
- Greek Culture Club
- Iona University American Sign Language Club
- Iona International
- Organization of Latinx American Students (OLAS)
- Queer Straight Alliance
- Student Leader Alliance for Multiculturalism (SLAM)
Events
Programs & Initiatives

On-Campus Resources
- Counseling Center
- Office of Mission & Ministry
- International Student Services
- Comprehensive Assistance Program (CAP)
- Samuel Rudin Academic Center
- Faith Sharing Groups
- Hospitality Suppers
External Resources to Get Engaged
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- Association on Higher Education and Disability
- Black Futures Lab
- Campaign Zero
- Center for Policing Equity
- Color of Change
- Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute
- GLAAD
- Government Alliance on Race & Equity
- Human Rights Campaign
- Movement For Black Lives
- NAACP Legal Defense Fund
- National Black Justice Coalition
- National Immigration Project
- National Organization for Women
- New York City Anti-Violence Project (AVP)
- The Trevor Project