Age as a Factor in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives in Higher Education

ABSTRACT

Demographic shifts and the growth of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are occurring simultaneously on college campuses. This study seeks to understand their intersection by focusing on age in DEI initiatives on college campuses. Findings from six focus groups suggest that age is not given much attention in DEI initiatives. Participants acknowledge the issue of age; but in general, they strive to keep other identities, like race and gender, in the forefront, especially in the face of low resources. While it may be difficult to elevate age in DEI initiatives on campuses, interventions were identified.

KEYWORDS:

• Ageism
• colleges
• universities
• age inclusivity
• age-friendly

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.