Office of Inclusive Excellence - Bradley University

Who We Are

The Office of Inclusive Excellence is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and supportive campus community “where everyone belongs, where excellence thrives.” We are committed to supporting student success by providing resources, meaningful engagement opportunities, and programs that promote personal, academic, and professional growth. Through initiatives that support first-generation college students, mentorship opportunities, leadership development, and access to basic needs assistance, we strive to remove barriers, strengthen connections, and empower students to thrive throughout their college journey.

Through educational outreach, collaborative initiatives, and engaging campus programming, the Office of Inclusive Excellence is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where all students can be successful at Bradley and beyond. By strengthening campus connections, promoting student engagement, and providing access to valuable resources, we encourage personal growth, leadership development, and academic success. Our programs and initiatives empower students to build meaningful relationships, navigate challenges, and develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed throughout their college experience and beyond.

Inclusivity

We work to ensure that all students feel welcome, valued, and empowered to succeed. It’s the lifeblood of the office, fostering a sense of belonging.

Advocacy

Whether we’re advocating for students, staff or faculty, we want to make sure everyone is heard. Advocacy underscores the proactive role the office takes in pushing for systemic change both within and beyond the university’s walls. It’s about being the voice for those who’ve been historically silenced or marginalized.

Empowerment

Empowerment is about giving students the tools they need to succeed, not just academically but also personally and socially. Empowerment turns the transient college years into a launching pad for lifelong success.

Programs

Held during the first week of November, National First-Gen
Week is a time to celebrate, empower, and honor the achievements of first-generation college students — those who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.

During this special week, the Office of Inclusive Excellence hosts a range of events designed to highlight and celebrate our first-gen community’s rich contributions to campus life. From workshops and panel discussions to networking sessions and social events, these initiatives foster a sense of unity, recognition, and support for first-gen students, their journeys, and their future successes.

Held each April, Senior Sendoff is a festive celebration honoring our graduating undergraduate and graduate seniors. It’s a chance to come together, reflect on achievements, and celebrate the journey you’ve made — from your first days on campus to this proud milestone. This event features food, raffles, live music, and more, creating a fun and lively atmosphere for graduates to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories with friends and fellow graduates. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy your last chance of childhood before adulthood awaits!

Through peer mentorship, the NextGen Mentorship Program
offers focused guidance through programming, workshops and student organization collaboration – helping students leverage the myriad of resources Bradley University offers, from academic support to career counseling, ensuring they don’t just navigate but thrive during their college journey.

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Additional Links

Bradley Hall 226
(309) 677-2646
diversity@bradley.edu
Monday – Friday
10:00 a.m. – 8 p.m.

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