McMaster offers a range of mentoring, counselling, and peer support programs specifically designed to assist students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented groups. These initiatives, recently awarded more than $2 million, are part of our comprehensive equity, diversity, and inclusion strategy and are woven into the fabric of our university culture to promote the well-being and success of all individuals on campus. 

The President’s Advisory Committee on Building an Inclusive Community (PACBIC), which has working groups representing equity-deserving groups, advocates for campus-wide change through programs, policies, and services administered by the university.  

At the core of our student services lies a commitment to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive environment that celebrates and empowers equity and diversity. Indigenous students can find a sense of community and tailored support at McMaster University’s Indigenous Student Services, which provides a spectrum of resources — from a targeted admissions stream to cultural programming  — that honours a unique heritage and facilitates the higher education of Indigenous students.    

Similarly, the Black Student Success Centre supports Black students, offering not only essential resources and mentorship, but also scholarships and awards to recognize academic excellence and alleviate financial burdens.  

LGBTQ+ students have access to  dedicated services focusing on mental health and well-being, to ensure  that every student has access to the support they need to thrive both personally and academically.  

At McMaster University, we are deeply invested in the growth and well-being of our staff, understanding that they are the cornerstone of our educational excellence and community strength. The Employee and Family Assistance Program provides comprehensive support through Human Resources to ensure that our staff and their families have access to the care and assistance they need. In tandem, ‘My Health’ serves as a resource for staff to proactively manage their health, emphasizing the importance of well-being in our community. 

DeGroote School of Business compiled a comprehensive array of resources for equity-deserving groups to inform our teachings and application of the vital principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to other staff and students. 

Professional development is also a priority, reflected in the Faculty Leadership & Development program, under the guidance of the Office of the Provost, which sharpens the academic leadership skills of our faculty. This is bolstered by  Learning & Development initiatives that offer a wide range of training opportunities to all staff, fostering continuous personal and professional growth. 

Our commitment to diversity and leadership is further exemplified by the Inclusive Excellence Leadership Program and the Mentored Leadership Development Program, which are key to cultivating a workplace that values diversity and empowers leaders from various backgrounds. Lastly, the ‘Grow with the RO: Mentoring Program‘ from the Office of the Registrar is another facet of our dedication to nurturing our staff, providing tailored mentorship to unlock potential.