Reflecting the mosaic: An investigation of diversity at academic institutions

This study aims to identify barriers to diversity in academic institutions and recommend policies to reduce these barriers, using Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby, British Columbia, as a case study. SFU is lagging compared to similar Western Canadian Universities regarding policies that support diversity on a broader intersectional scale, despite recommendations put forth by an SFU committee on gender salary equity in the fall of 2016. This study aims to provide direction to SFU on how to support diversity through an intersectional lens. Using qualitative interviews from subject matter experts, this Capstone analyzes fifteen short, medium, and long-term policy options and recommends seven to the SFU senior leadership. The core of this recommendation is the development of a strategic plan for diversity that reinforces commitment of the senior leadership and provides guidelines for future development of policies and programs that support diversity.