Carnegie Mellon University

Bridging to Inclusive Excellence: A CMU Framework

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is committed to diligently, deliberately and collaboratively taking the necessary steps to foster a community of excellence where all members can thrive. CMU's roadmap in this work is "Bridging to Inclusive Excellence: A CMU Framework."

This Framework:

  • Aligns and assesses inclusive excellence efforts across the university
  • Reinforces principles and feedback mechanisms
  • Promotes shared ownership and academic excellence
  • Nurtures an environment of belonging for all community members

About The Framework

A best practice in the higher education industry, Frameworks for Inclusive Excellence enhance academic excellence while building community and fostering a culture of belonging.

Operationalizing CMU’s Framework for Inclusive Excellence

Promoting inclusive excellence is a journey that evolves with an institution's mission, values, goals, culture, identity and demographics. 

The three key stages to operationalizing the Framework are:

  1. Strategic Creation: Develop the Framework through a transparent, iterative and inclusive process informed by institutional voices and best practices.
  2. Strategic Mapping: Evaluate, organize and align colleges and divisions to identify goals, actions and opportunities and holistically frame our institution’s work.
  3. Strategic Tracking: Monitor progress to ensure that ongoing efforts continue to align with CMU's pursuit of inclusive excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inclusive Excellence is a systematic approach that aims to maximize success and bolster academic excellence for members at all levels of the university.

A Framework for Inclusive Excellence is a conceptual and theoretical foundation that serves as a guiding compass for the institution and its community and remains adaptive to evolving dynamics of society and higher education.

  • Provides guidance and direction to ensure CMU continues to move forward towards belongingness. 
  • Shows strategic intention and institutional commitment, while promoting a culture of accountability and shared responsibility for this growth.
  • Supports understanding, credibility, viability and sustainability. 
  • Enables CMU to better live its values and maximize success via specific pillars that underpin strategic plans for building community and inclusivity.
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The Framework is a dynamic document that adapts to evolving higher education environments and responds to changing sociopolitical and sociocultural environments. Its longevity requires ongoing collaboration and flexibility amid changing conditions and aspirations.