EDI Public Accountability

EDI sections for Public Accountability and Transparency Web Pages

Research consistently shows that cultivating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive work environment enhances excellence, fosters innovation, and amplifies impact. Likewise, a diversity of experiences and perspectives is fundamental to producing high-quality research. Guided by this understanding, Bishop’s has implemented a series of institutional measures to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion within the Canada Research Chairs Program (CRCP).

A key action that was undertaken

For example, the Office of Research in collaboration with the EDI Office and the Vice-Principal Academic Office, has developed a comprehensive CRC Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Action Plan (EDIAP) that outlines both ongoing and planned initiatives to ensure equitable processes in the allocation, selection, renewal, and institutional support of chairholders.

One such initiative focuses on developing targeted outreach strategies to attract researchers from marginalized groups.

Outcomes and impacts this action supported during the reporting period

Among the outcomes and impacts supported by this action during the reporting period, we can highlight the implementation of accountability mechanisms such as regular monitoring and reporting against specific, measurable outcomes to ensure that the development and implementation of the CRC EDI Action Plan move beyond tokenism and performative measures. Additionally, CRCs undergo regular performance evaluations that incorporate EDI metrics to assess their commitment to advancing the plan’s objectives.

Challenges encountered in undertaking this action, and mitigation strategies that were employed

One of the major challenges lies in a limited understanding of the nuances and implications of EDI. To address this, the Office of Research and Graduate Studies offers regular professional development sessions on EDI issues in research to better prepare and support researchers and their teams. Over the past year, these sessions have been expanded to include staff members, particularly those working in human resources and research administration.

Importance of the CRCP Stipend for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Funding from the CRCP EDI stipend was used for this action and has played an important role in enabling the institution to make progress in implementing measures to address systemic barriers.

Other EDI initiatives

Bishop’s has undertaken several initiatives beyond those linked specifically to the CRCP, with the goal of addressing systemic barriers and fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive research environment. For example, in March 2025, the EDI Office organized Simply Noir, a three-day symposium at B.U. highlighting the work of Black researchers and scholars. A similar symposium focused on Indigenous scholarship is planned for 2026.