Equity and Inclusion

Equity and Inclusion at Eastman

The Eastman School of Music is committed to:

diversity, equity, and inclusion and strives for continuous improvement;
fostering a community of musicians of diverse backgrounds and origins by creating an educational experience that is musically, socially and intellectually diverse;
assuring that every person in our community is unquestionably welcome, safe, respected, and appreciated; and
creating and encouraging an inclusive community that enriches the lives of our students, our faculty, our immediate community, and the world of music at large.

On this site, you will find links to the events and resources provided by the Inclusion at Eastman Committee and the Eastman Racial Justice Commission, as well as links to programs, services, and opportunities available through Eastman, the University of Rochester, and the Greater Rochester area.

Quick Links

University of Rochester’s Commitment

The University is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. This commitment extends to policies and practices for admissions, recruitment, and employment in accordance with the principles of equal opportunity and Affirmative Action and in compliance with applicable law.

For more information, please visit:

Inclusion at Eastman Committee

The Inclusion at Eastman Committee (formerly known as Eastman Diversity Committee) was founded in 2007 as part of a university-wide initiative to create a more inclusive environment throughout the university. Ellen Koskoff, professor of ethnomusicology, and Dr. Elizabeth West Marvin, professor of music theory, served as the first chairs of the committee, served as the first chairs of the committee, with the purpose of promoting greater diversity at Eastman. The current committee includes members of the administration, faculty, staff, and students of Eastman.

The Inclusion at Eastman Committee acts as a coordinator, collaborator and promoter of equity-related events and resources available at Eastman, on the River Campus, and in the Greater Rochester area. The Eastman Committee’s initiatives include:

Engaging students in a conversation about equity and inclusion and its relevance to their present and future lives,
Offering faculty members financial assistance to bring in guest lecturers of diverse backgrounds,
Providing relevant educational opportunities and experiences,
Assisting administrative efforts to cultivate an environment of thoughtful awareness and tolerance;
Encouraging a sense of community built on diverse individual strengths and shared experiences.
Creating a supportive atmosphere for our current faculty, staff, and students – one which will welcome future generations, and be a source of pride for all who have ever been affiliated with the Eastman School of Music.

Eastman Action Commission for Racial Justice

REPORT & RECOMMENDATIONS

See Report