Commitment to Diversity

At Kuyper, we want to reflect the kingdom of God, and that means we seek to attract students, faculty, and staff members from diverse ethnic, cultural, and denominational backgrounds. The word "diversity" gets tossed around a lot these days, but we carry it far mere policy to an active commitment to live it. We're incorporating an appreciation for diverse traditions and perspectives in our programs and in every aspect of the College because we want our graduates to be able to live, work and thrive in a multi-cultural society.

The Changing Face of Kuyper College

Our ethnically diverse Admissions Office staff is working to recruit students from a variety of ethnic,  denominational, and educational backgrounds. We believe wholeheartedly in inclusiveness, and along with Diversity Committee members, we're building relationships with ministry and church leaders, as well as other groups in the Greater Grand Rapids community, to reach more students with the message that we want to train as many Christian leaders as we can. 

In Kuyper College's earlier years, most of our students came from fairly homogenous backgrounds. But the demographics of our student body are changing:

        15% African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic-American, multi-racial
         5% International
         3% Canadian

Faith/denominational backgrounds:

For more information:

• Presidents' statement on racism
• Ask our Admissions Team about Kuyper's diversity plans
• Arrange for a campus visit
• Find out about financial aid and scholarships

Inclusion in Curriculum and Programs

Kuyper College faculty members are encouraged to develop a curriculum that is cross-cultural in nature and integrates different views for reflection and discussion both in and out of the classroom. Contributions to various disciplines by individuals from ethnic minorities are incorporated into teaching material. Here are just a few examples:

• Social Work majors are required to take a course in human diversity (SW334).
• When new faculty are hired, the College looks for qualified individuals whose experience will add new facets to a Kuyper education. For instance, Professor Gary Teja, who joined the Cross-Cultural Missions Department this year, has an extensive background in cross-cultural studies and race relations.
• Psychology, Missions, and Youth Ministry courses include multi-cultural perspectives in class discussions, required text, video presentations, and visits by guest speakers. Missions majors are required to sign up for two cross-cultural experiences in addition to classwork.

Diversity Committee

Kuyper's Diversity Committee has created a formal plan to boost diversity efforts on campus. This plan deals with all areas of the campus community and is part of the College's current strategic plan. The committee seeks to celebrate numerous holidays, host functions celebrating diversity, and encourage other Kuyper College committees to bring speakers and guest lecturers to campus to relate personal experiences and educate about diversity. The Diversity Commitee also sponsors local events such as the Summit on Racism and works with the Grand Rapids Urban League and other organizations. 

Including People of Many Talents and Abilities

Kuyper College strives to make campus facilities and academic instruction accessible to people with physical or learning disabilities. For more information, contact Sarah Behm at  (616) 988-3661, or click here.

The College also offers Pre-Season, a three-day course to help equip underprepared students for the kinds of activities, skiils, and need for self-discipline that will be required as they study and live at Kuyper.