2021 U.S. News & World Report ranks FLC 9th in Campus Ethnic Diversity

Fort Lewis College is ranked ninth for campus ethnic diversity at national liberal arts colleges in the 2021 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.

Students of color now represent 57% of the student body at FLC, and 45% of students are Native American or Alaska Native with 185 Tribal Nations and Alaska Native villages represented.

FLC has seen an increase each year in student body diversity, with a 7% increase since 2018 when students of color first represented more than half of all students. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central aspects of the strategic plan adopted in 2019, as well as a major focus for the Board of Trustees.

At a time when national conversations and protests highlight systemic racism, FLC is committed more than ever to institutionalizing DEI programming and values into all aspects of the student experience. Campus diversity leadership is working with committees of students and employees to continue to educate, build a community of support, and advocate for equality.

“Diversity is valued at our college and we are now well-poised to strengthen and enhance equity and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff,” says Lee Bitsóí, associate vice president of Diversity Affairs.

At their August retreat, the Board of Trustees made a pledge to critically examine how to address institutionalized racism on campus.  A Voices of Color town hall echoed these efforts, with campus leaders speaking to their experiences with racism on campus and in Durango, as well as providing action steps the FLC community can take to better support people of color.

“No matter our differences, our backgrounds, we can come together to care for each other to create a better version of FLC,” says President Tom Stritikus.