The definition of diversity taken today has evolved from what it was 50 years ago. The contemporary use of the term in many US colleges and universities today is:

​

     "Understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies".

​

 The premise I believe, is that the various unique qualities we each have; be they physically discernible, economic, geographic, genetic, spiritual, historical, experiential or psychological, causes us each to see and rationalize things a bit differently than the person sitting next to us, or for that matter differently than anyone else in the room or building. Each of us are indeed unique based upon our DNA and cumulative experiences.

​

 However, these unique characteristics in each of us are merely inputs to are current situation – those situations that we face each day . . . just inputs. I prefer to focus on outcomes. So…what is the output? The important question to consider is: what will be the outcome of bringing together or developing different perspectives?

​

 Here is my view: I believe that the effect of bringing together different people, with different perspectives and experiences is to create an environment of diverse thought. Personally, I have a very high regard for Diversity of thought!



So for me having a team of people that have different skin tones, ethnicities, and gender is only an indication or milestone along the road to diversity of thought…t is not a guarantee or outcome.