Diversity Audit "Shaping Diversity" by Stifterverband

In February 2019, the Stifterverband awarded the University of Göttingen the certificate of the Diversity Audit "Shaping Diversity" at the end of a two-year process. With this certificate, the Stifterverband recognises universities that develop concepts and measures for dealing productively with the diversity of their members and staff.

The University of Göttingen developed its research-oriented and -based diversity strategy in 2016. The strategy makes it clear that all members and affiliates, regardless of their origin and life situation, are given equal opportunities and protection from discrimination and are empowered with a view to successful study and very good performance in their careers. Part of the strategy is to make the University inclusive and at the same time to have a transformative effect on the environment with partners in the city and region.

The University was able to successfully use the audit to implement the strategy. Among other things, an anti-discrimination counselling service for students was set up, a handbook for the barrier-free design of documents was created, the coordination of its diversity work was strengthened and diversity was integrated into core processes in Student and Academic Services. The commitment of numerous actors from all areas of the University made a decisive contribution to the success of the auditing process.

The University continues to pursue its path of diversity-oriented organisational development even after the audit has been completed. Some projects, such as the diversity-oriented further development of personnel selection procedures, will be continued. Many of those involved have already expressed their willingness to continue their work.

Backround

In 2015, the University of Göttingen successfully applied for the Diversity Audit "Shaping Diversity" of the Stifterverband. Together with nine other universities, it underwent a guided organisational development process between 2016 and 2019 and thus took the next step towards an organisational structure and culture characterised by mutual respect and appreciation for all. Dr Ute Zimmermann accompanied the process as an auditor.

The Stifterverband's Diversity Audit "Shaping Diversity" accompanies and advises universities in formulating their own development goals and pursuing them with appropriate structural changes and measures. The audit combines elements of organisational development with peer counselling and external support. Moderated reflections and discussions with all participants and potential stakeholders (university management, students, employees) accompany and promote the process within the university.

In addition to the University of Göttingen, the following universities participated in the audit from 2016 to 2019: University of Düsseldorf, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, University of Hamburg, University of Kiel, University of Cologne, Landshut University of Applied Sciences, University of Lübeck, Münster University of Applied Sciences, Regensburg University of Applied Sciences.