The Heller School for Social Policy and Management

Our commitment to build belongingness for all

The Heller School seeks to ensure a safe and inclusive environment in which community members respect and value others. In the pursuit of the Heller motto, “Knowledge Advancing Social Justice,” we are committed to equity, inclusion and diversity in our research institutes, academic programs, policies and community relationships.

Dean David Weil says, “As a graduate school dedicated to social justice, Heller has a duty to confront the racial injustice that pervades our social policies, our institutions, and even our school community.” (Read his full statement on Heller's commitment to addressing institutional racism.)

To measure our progress on these goals, we follow the 165 benchmarked metrics outlined by the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award and regularly update our progress.

Bring your whole self to Heller

The Heller School endorses a broad definition of diversity reflective of differences that include, but are not limited to, age, race, ethnicity, language, nationality, visa status, culture, economic status and background, gender and gender expression, sexual orientation and identity, religion, political views, academic background and interests, abilities, learning styles and pace, physical appearance, and individual personality.

Take the pledge

It is the responsibility of each and every member of the Heller community to acknowledge the meaningful differences that inform each individual's identity, and to uphold and defend our shared values as we strive to create a more equitable future for all. Our mission is buttressed through Heller's Diversity Pledge and the diversity and inclusion goals of Brandeis University.

News and Events

Show Pride with HRC

Pride started with protests led by LGBTQ people, largely transgender women of color, who confronted police brutality and discrimination in the fight for equality. Now, as we have witnessed a rash of racial violence across the country, it’s more important than ever we fight for change for all of us, not some of us.

LGBTQ Pride Month @ The Library of Congress

June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month. This month-long celebration demonstrates how LGBTQ Americans have strengthened our country, by using their talent and creativity to help create awareness and goodwill.

The collections of the Library of Congress contain many books, posters, sound recordings, manuscripts and other material produced by, about and for the LGBTQ community.

Boston Pride

Boston Pride produces events and activities to achieve inclusivity, equality, respect, and awareness in Greater Boston and beyond. Fostering diversity, unity, visibility, and dignity, we educate, communicate, and advocate by building and strengthening community connections.