Educational Equity
Overview
Educational Equity is founded on the idea and work of providing historically-underserved students the opportunities to meet their utmost potential as learners, teachers, and community members. Albertus was founded on similar principles as the Dominican Sisters of Saint Mary of the Springs, who are now known as the Dominican Sisters of Peace, opened its doors to women during a time when women were not allowed to enroll in “traditional” colleges and universities. Today, the Albertus student body consists of over 50% Black and Latino/a/x students; nearly 60% are first-generation college students; and a majority of Albertus students receive grants due to their low-income status.
Like the women who first attended Albertus, people from Black, Latino/a/x, and low-income communities have had limited access to adequate higher education. Additionally, colleges and universities, in general, have not prepared the college faculty to provide the education underserved communities need to thrive as college students and future professionals.
Given these circumstances, it is important for college instructors to take intentional steps with integrating educational equity into their teaching practices. Coupled with our students’ resilience, equity-based teaching practices can enhance our students’ success and have a positive impact on their communities.