Diversity broadly represents the variety of identities, perspectives, and experiences that individuals collectively bring to an environment. Beyond representation, diversity implies an appreciation, respect, and acknowledgment of the unique attributes that each individual brings to our institution. Many decades of research demonstrate how bringing together a community with a diversity of experiences and perspectives enhances innovation, creativity and more effective problem-solving. At U-M, we commit to increasing diversity, which is expressed in myriad forms, including race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language, culture, national origins, religious commitments, age, disability status, and political perspective.  https://diversity.umich.edu/about/defining-dei/