External review highlights importance of Equity and Inclusion Office, suggests opportunities for strengthening its mandate

An External Review of the Equity and Inclusion Office (EIO) at McMaster University found that it is clear to members of our campus community that the university is committed to Inclusive Excellence, while making recommendations to ensure the EIO is both effective and active.

The reviewers, comprising three external members and one internal, were invited by the provost to attend McMaster for a two-day site visit review process that was conducted on Sept. 28 and 29, 2022. Over that time, they met with individuals and groups the reviewers described as representing a rich cross-section of the McMaster community.

Through thorough and candid consultations, the reviewers found the EIO is respected, recognized for providing invaluable services and that it occupies a complex role. They also identified gaps and made 10 recommendations that would help support a renewed mandate for the EIO as it seeks a new executive leader.

“I am thankful to the reviewers and to all individuals at McMaster University who contributed to this report,” says Susan Tighe, provost and vice-president (Academic). “I welcome the recommendations as we seek to strengthen Inclusive Excellence as part of the fabric of our university. I see the EIO as playing an important leadership role toward that institutional goal.”

The report is structured to focus on three areas covering (1) the EIO’s mandate, (2) connections to systems and to the inequity that persist particularly for Indigenous people and racialized communities, and (3) the type of role the new executive leader will occupy and the need for that person to have both lived and professional experience.

The full report can be found on the Office of the Provost’s website.