UCLA’s primary purpose as a public research university is the creation, dissemination, preservation and application of knowledge for the betterment of our global society. As a land-grant institution, we carry a particular responsibility to the people of the state of California. This responsibility is expressed through the excellence of the education we provide, the impact of our research, the comprehensive, life-saving medical services we deliver, and our enduring public service mission. 

Central to UCLA’s mission is a commitment to inclusive excellence. Inclusive excellence is both the practice and commitment to identify, amplify and champion the pluralistic excellence of all members of the UCLA community in all that we do. To realize this commitment, inclusive excellence must be woven into the fabric of the university through intentional connections to each of the areas of research, teaching and service, respectful engagement, in-depth learning, and challenging yet constructive dialogue. These contributions should be recognized and supported. As UCLA maintains its excellence as it continues to provide opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds it becomes more excellent and more fully meets its public mandate.

In reflecting on candidates’ personal and professional experiences and perspectives, faculty are encouraged—but not required—to discuss their past contributions and future commitments to advancing UCLA's mission. Per APM‐210, these contributions “should be given due recognition in the academic personnel process, and they should be evaluated and credited in the same way as other faculty achievements.”

I. Policy

Academic review and appraisal committees may be guided by the following policies and procedures, which apply to personnel actions concerning appointees in the following series: Professor, Professor‐in‐ Residence, Professor of Clinical (X), Professor of Teaching, Health Sciences Clinical Professor, Adjunct Professor, Academic Administrator, and Academic Coordinator.

II. Purpose and Responsibility

UCLA acknowledges that contributions to the university mission may take many forms, as defined in APM‐210.

III. Assessment of Evidence

Contributions to inclusive excellence may be incorporated into the appropriate sections of the personal statement. Guidance for academic units, appraisal committees, and review committees includes the following:

• UCLA recognizes that contributions to inclusive excellence may include a broad span of activities. For example, these may include:
  • Efforts to advance access to education;
  • Public service that addresses the needs of California populations;
  • Research and scholarship in a scholar’s area that highlights inclusivity;
  • Mentoring and advising students and faculty members with the goal of inclusive excellence;
  • Pedagogical practices and learning theories that create inclusive learning environments and communities.
• Contributions to UCLA’s Mission should be assessed as part of a candidate’s overall record, not as a separate or additional criterion (not a “fourth leg”).
• Regardless of whether these contributions are included in the file, faculty review committees should give due consideration to them and department chairs should address them in their recommendation letters. Administrators should take an active leadership role in ensuring these contributions are recognized and valued across all aspects of the University.