Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Innovation

“Creating an inclusive environment where all of our student-athletes feel accepted and valued is important to help them thrive and excel on and off the field. We are committed to being leaders in this effort and using the platform of UGA Athletics to make a meaningful difference.”
– Coach Kirby Smart, UGA Football

“Our current and future student-athletes must know where we stand on the important issues involving racial and social injustices. The University of Georgia Athletic Association is committed to taking the right and necessary steps. Within our program, we ask our young ladies ‘what is your call to action?’ We obviously seek to create awareness, but what can we do that is tangible, that is real, and that is going to carry change. We have a tremendous responsibility to use our platform in educating, lifting up and affecting real change in our community and in our world.”
– Coach Joni Taylor, Former Head Coach – UGA Women’s Basketball

“Diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to UGA as each student has role in creating a culture where our differences are celebrated. The Student-Athlete Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee provides a space to highlight diversity while working to bring new perspectives, ideas and solutions to the table, forging a path to a more inclusive environment for all.”
– Isabelle Heckler, UGA Equestrian

“Although we might all look or behave different, everyone is made in God’s image. Being an ally means to love everyone and celebrate our differences. The world would be a boring place if we didn’t have diversity!”
– Clay Pender, UGA Cross Country

“Diversity, equity, and inclusion is important everywhere, but especially in athletics as it teaches you to look past your sport and find other commonalities between the people you spend time with. I wanted to be a member of the Student-Athlete Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee because I wanted to be part of a group of people that understand the importance of feeling accepted and welcomed.“
– Victoria Powell, UGA Women’s Track