Diversity and Inclusion

Georgia Southwestern State University is committed to providing a working and academic environment free from prohibited discrimination and harassment, and to fostering a community founded upon the fundamental dignity and value of each individual member. Georgia Southwestern prohibits harassment of its students and employees and works to eliminate such behavior from its academics and employment through corrective measures, education and outreach.

GSW Diversity Commitment

As an institution of higher learning, Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) has an inherent responsibility to create and maintain an environment that affirms diversity of individuals as well as diversity of views. Diversity is essential to Georgia Southwestern’s core value of Academic Excellence. A commitment to diversity means a commitment to the inclusion, safety, and support of individuals from all groups. Diversity encompasses various characteristics of persons in our community. These characteristics include race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, age, socioeconomic background, religion, sexual orientation, disability, military and veteran status. GSW’s core values of 'Inclusiveness, Engagement and Connection' establish guiding principles for students, faculty, and staff to seek different perspectives and opportunities to learn from each other. 

It is a shared responsibility among every GSW community member to make Georgia Southwestern a welcoming and safe place for all.

Report an Incident

Individuals may report incidents to the University in person or online. Student-related situations should be reported in person or online through the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities located in the Student Success Center (SSC) 3^rd floor. Incidents involving GSW community members who are not students may report in person or online through the Department of Human Resources located in Sanford Hall 1^st floor.

Reports will be reviewed to determine next steps which may include further investigation or disciplinary action, when appropriate.

A group of University representatives from the Council on Diversity and Behavioral Intervention Team will seek corrective measures that include outreach, dialog, education, and other related action to foster individual growth and community. Reported incidents may require following procedures outlined in the Student Code of Conduct, Employee Handbook, or Faculty Handbook. The determination of direction is at the discretion of the University.

Georgia Southwestern State University ("GSW") is committed to maintaining a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment for living, working, and studying. Equal opportunity and decisions based on merit are fundamental values of the University System of Georgia (USG) and Georgia Southwestern State University.

In accordance with USG Board of Regents Policy, and applicable federal and state law, Georgia Southwestern State University prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in any University program or activity.

No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of an individual’s protected status. Protected status includes age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status, as defined by USG policy.

Harassment and discrimination by any member of the GSW community—including faculty, staff, students, applicants, and third parties—are strictly prohibited. Every member of the University community is expected to uphold nondiscriminatory practices as a matter of mutual respect and fundamental fairness.

Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation may contact:

Violations of this statement may result in disciplinary action, consistent with applicable University policies, Board of Regents policies, and established grievance or conduct procedures, up to and including dismissal, expulsion, or termination where appropriate.

(Revised April 2026)