Jan 11, 2024 12:01 AM EST By Joy Liwanag, UniversityHerald Reporter

In the dynamic landscape of education and workforce development, research increasingly highlights the positive correlation between racial and ethnic diversity and heightened cultural competency, productivity, and innovation.

U.S. News has identified institutions that excel in promoting undergraduate diversity by evaluating the proportion of enrolled minority students, excluding international students, and assigning a diversity index ranging from 0 (least diverse) to 1 (most diverse).

Here are the top 10 colleges and universities leading the charge in cultivating ethnically diverse student populations:

1. CUNY-Queens College (NY)

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Asian
- Student demographics: 32% Asian, 30% Hispanic, 20% white, 10% Black, 3% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 45 (tie), Regional Universities North

2. George Mason University (VA)

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Asian
- Student demographics: 34% white, 23% Asian, 17% Hispanic, 12% Black, 5% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 105 (tie), National Universities

3. Georgia Gwinnett College

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Black
- Student demographics: 32% Black, 27% Hispanic, 23% white, 11% Asian, 4% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 47 (tie), Regional Colleges South

4. New Jersey Institute of Technology

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Hispanic
- Student demographics: 32% white, 26% Hispanic, 22% Asian, 10% Black, 3% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 86 (tie), National Universities

5. New York University

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Asian
- Student demographics: 22% white, 20% Asian, 17% Hispanic, 8% Black, 4% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 35 (tie), National Universities

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6. Pomona College (CA)

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Asian
- Student demographics: 32% white, 18% Asian, 16% Hispanic, 10% Black, 8% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 4 (tie), National Liberal Arts Colleges

7. Rutgers University-Newark (NJ)

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Hispanic
- Student demographics: 35% Hispanic, 21% white, 20% Black, 18% Asian, 2% multiracial
- U.S. News rank: 82 (tie), National Universities

8. Soka University of America (CA)

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Hispanic
- Student demographics: 14% white, 13% Hispanic, 12% Asian, 5% multiracial, 2% Black
- U.S. News rank: 56 (tie), National Liberal Arts Colleges

9. Swarthmore College (PA)

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Asian
- Student demographics: 32% white, 18% Asian, 14% Hispanic, 10% multiracial, 9% Black
- U.S. News rank: 4 (tie), National Liberal Arts Colleges

10. University of California, Los Angeles

- Diversity index: 0.74
- Largest minority group: Asian
- Student demographics: 29% Asian, 26% white, 22% Hispanic, 7% multiracial, 3% Black
- U.S. News rank: 15 (tie), National Universities

These colleges and universities stand as beacons of diversity, fostering environments where students from various racial and ethnic backgrounds converge, learn, and thrive together. As our society continues to emphasize the importance of inclusivity, these institutions play a crucial role in shaping future leaders equipped with cultural competency, innovation, and a deep understanding of the global landscape.

The diversity index, ranging from 0.74 to 0.78, reflects a commitment to creating campuses that mirror the rich tapestry of the world. From the bustling urban setting of New York University to the picturesque campus of Pomona College in California, each institution contributes to the mosaic of experiences that define the modern educational landscape.

As students embark on their academic journeys, these colleges not only provide academic excellence but also prioritize an inclusive community where differences are celebrated. The dedication to cultivating diversity extends beyond statistics, with initiatives, clubs, and projects that promote dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among students of diverse backgrounds.

In a world that increasingly values a global perspective, the significance of these diverse institutions cannot be overstated. They serve as models for how higher education can transcend boundaries and create environments where students are not just educated academically but also enriched by the myriad perspectives surrounding them.

As we applaud these institutions for their commitment to diversity, it is essential to recognize that the journey towards inclusivity is ongoing. However, by acknowledging the progress made and celebrating the achievements of these colleges and universities, we move one step closer to a more equitable and harmonious educational landscape. In embracing diversity, these institutions inspire us all to reach higher, learn from one another, and create a future where education knows no bounds.

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