We’re stronger together.
Year Up’s mission is deeply rooted in a commitment to justice, equity, inclusion and diversity of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, religion and socio-economic status amongst our student body and employees.
It’s about doing what is right and fair. It’s about giving space to every voice; making sure our workplace looks like our community; and ensuring every individual is empowered to be their truest, most authentic self.
Definitions
Year Up’s philosophy is grounded in embracing and advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).
Individual differences (e.g., personality, learning styles, life experiences, etc.) and group/social differences (e.g. race/ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, country of origin, and ability, as well as cultural, political, religious, or other affiliations).
The guarantee of fairness in treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all students and staff, and the identification and elimination of barriers that prevent the full participation of some groups.
The active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity in ways that increase awareness, mutual respect, understanding of the complex ways individuals interact within systems and institutions.
Belonging is a feeling of community with the people and environments that makes us feel connected and safe.
We believe that when we take the time to listen to one another — sharing individual stories and viewpoints — we build trust, understanding, and respect for perspectives and experiences that differ from our own.
We strive to create space for these conversations in our community and to apply what we learn to effectively close the Opportunity Divide.
Key Priorities
We cultivate an environment in which all members of the Year Up community are welcome, respected, and supported; where all perspectives and contributions are valued and proactively sought.
Staff-led committees support and uphold Year Up’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and to developing a culture where students and staff can advance our ability to drive social change.
Webinars, book clubs, lunch & learns, trainings, and guest speakers weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into Year Up’s cultural fabric, fostering shared understanding and competencies around topics such as power and privilege, institutional racism, gender in the workplace, and unconscious bias.
Year Up is focused on inclusive and equitable hiring and retention practices. This is guided by training to effectively manage diverse teams and reduce bias, professional development for career advancement, and coaching and skill-building to enhance performance.
What employees say
Diversity promotes longevity
"Year Up’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is the reason why I stay committed to closing the Opportunity Divide. My voice is heard, and my story is respected. Having the opportunity to join the National Women of Color staff resource group gave me the opportunity to be vulnerable in a space where other women look like me. I haven’t experienced that since starting my professional career.”
Year Up By the Numbers
BIPOC Representation at Year Up
Race/Ethnicity Representation (%)
- All Staff
- Director+
- Executive Team
- Students
Gender Identity
- All Staff
- Director+
- Executive Team
- Students
Setting Goals & Tracking Progress
What employees say
Pursuing diversity is simply smart business
“Diversity requires equity and inclusion at all career stages. It’s driven by equal access to the opportunities and advancement that create a path to leadership.”