Binghamton University has been honored with the 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, marking the fourth time the university has received this prestigious recognition. The HEED Award is a national accolade that celebrates U.S. colleges and universities demonstrating exceptional commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). Along with 114 other recipients, Binghamton will be featured in the November/December 2024 issue of the magazine.
Karen Jones, Binghamton’s Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, highlighted the significance of this achievement: “Our efforts to create a campus that not only values but fully embraces all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging require continued action and dedication. The HEED Award serves as a milestone that acknowledges the hard work and commitment of the entire Binghamton University community.”
Binghamton’s recognition stems from its comprehensive initiatives to enhance diversity and inclusion across campus. Programs like the Watson College Scholars Program and the School of Management’s Transformational Leaders Program are examples of how the university promotes academic and professional success for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, Binghamton has earned a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from the National Campus Pride Index for its efforts in creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students.
The university is equally committed to fostering a diverse and equitable workforce. Through fair hiring practices and the support of various affinity groups, Binghamton ensures that underrepresented populations feel welcomed and valued.
University President Harvey Stenger expressed pride in the ongoing recognition: “Receiving the HEED Award for a fourth consecutive year underscores our dedication to making Binghamton University a welcoming community for all. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging are core to who we are and what we do.”
The HEED Award’s selection process is thorough, considering factors like student and faculty recruitment, retention, pathway programs, leadership support, and community partnerships. Publisher Lenore Pearlstein noted that Binghamton, along with the other recipients, sets a standard for best practices in higher education.
Binghamton joins several other SUNY institutions, including Farmingdale State College, Stony Brook University, and University at Albany, as 2024 HEED Award winners.
