Although Omicron Delta Kappa did not have a diverse membership at the time of its founding, the Society has certainly grown to be more inclusive beginning with its initiation of women and individuals of color beginning in the 1970s. The Morris Brown College Circle was the first circle to be chartered at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in 1976. Omicron Delta Kappa is currently located on the campuses of six HBCU institutions. There are 22 member schools that are identified as Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI).
The Society first issued its Diversity Statement more than a decade ago and expanded its Equal Opportunity Statement in 2015 to make it clear that the Society’s programs and activities, membership selection, and membership practices shall be free of bias. In 2020, the position of National Diversity Officer was established, and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity Committee was elevated to become a governing committee of the Board of Trustees. More information about the Society’s efforts to become a more inclusive organization may be found below.
Omicron Delta Kappa has also sought to develop a number of resources and opportunities for collegiate members, lifetime members, circles, and other individuals who have an interest in promoting leadership which embraces diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Below is a description of the available resources and opportunities.
General Resources and Opportunities
Glossary
A glossary of terms that may be helpful in holding conversations related to diversity, equity, inclusivity, and social justice is located on this webpage.
Organizations
There are numerous organizations that support individuals and communities in advancing social justice. To learn more, click here.
Publications
Members of Omicron Delta Kappa have identified a number of books, articles, and other publications which discuss issues related to gender, race, and ethnicity in American society. To see the list of publications, click here.
Websites
There are numerous websites which also have information to assist members as they serve as diverse, equitable, and inclusive leaders. To learn more, click here.
Circle Resources and Opportunities
Programming Suggestions
There are a number of programs and projects in which circles may coordinate or sponsor that assist the circle and the surrounding campus community better embrace diversity, equity, inclusivity, and social justice. Click here to see several programming suggestions.
Clay Grants
Two of the Maurice A. Clay Leadership Development Initiative Grants have been designated to support circle efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusivity on campus. Information about the scholarship program is located at this link.
Collegiate Resources and Opportunities
Scholarships
Two of the Society’s scholarships have been designated for students from historically underrepresented and marginalized racial populations. Also, two scholarships have been designated for students who identify as LGBTQ+. More information about the scholarship program may be found here.
Awards
The Society has established two awards to recognize achievement in relation to diversity, equity, and inclusivity. The Andristine M. Robinson Champion Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity is presented annually to an individual, circle, institution, or program that has demonstrated or fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment that promotes diversity and inclusion within O∆K circles or nationally. The Society also established the O∆K Community Commitment Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity. This award honors those individual members who consistently promote an inclusive campus and/or community; demonstrate an ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity; and appreciate that diversity is integral to healthy and productive communities.
