Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at KCAD

A collage of students smiling into the camera

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) respects you in whatever ways you identify yourself. Your personhood and identity are supported, welcomed, and encouraged here.

Our identities may differ in many ways, but we thrive in our community because of, not in spite of, these differences of experience. We promote an inclusive student and employee environment where all are invited to participate in the rich diversity that informs our creative expression. Below, you'll find information and resources that reflect our commitment to creating a vibrant creative learning community that fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance among students, faculty, and staff.

 

On the left side of the image, a group of students engages in conversation. On the right side, a person wearing a black vest and a green scraf with blond hair smiles into the camera.
 

Preferred Names and Pronouns

 

Students or employees may choose the first name they prefer to be referred by. Any community member may, at any time, change their preferred first name through the MyFSU system. Students will automatically have this name used when they arrive on campus. If you wish, you can let your professors know your pronouns.

Preferred First Name Policy

 

Restrooms

 

KCAD supports an inclusive policy and recognizes our student and staff’s human dignity. Simply put, please use the restroom that represents your gender identity. If you just need privacy, we have restrooms designated as single use in our 17 Fountain Street NW building. 

More info on single-use restrooms

On the left side of the image, and american flag flies next to a pride flag in front of a blue sky. In the left side, students walk into a building.
 

 

On the left side of the image, a group of students pose on a bench. On the right side, two men stand in front of a colorful mural holding paint brushes.
 

Student Clubs and Organizations

 

Looking to explore new opportunities and make new friends? Enlarge your KCAD community with our diverse offering of registered student organizations.

Featured RSOs
  • BIPOC Association
  • Global Connection Club
  • Green Council
 
  • Huer Magazine
  • LGBTQ+ Pride Club
  • United Campus Christian Fellowship

 

Events

 

Every month the Ferris LGBTQ+ Resource Center sponsors opportunities on KCAD’s campus for shared events and get-togethers. KCAD also hosts a variety of DEI-focused events throughout each academic year. 

UPCOMING DEI EVENTS

A group of people drawing on a large shee tof white paper.
 

 

Students mingling in an outside campus area.
 

KCAD/Ferris Resources

KCAD and Ferris are proud to foster diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging across our campus communities with a variety of specialized staff members and resource centers available to support you. 

 

Local Resources

West Michigan is home to many nonprofits and other organizations providing invaluable DEI-focused resources to our community, from networking and professional development opportunities to mental and physical health services to  the arts and cultural enrichment. 

A large group of people dancing.



 

Concerns?

If you have a concern on campus regarding racism, sexism, anti-LGBTQ discrimination, ableism or any other form of discrimination, please use the following confidential form which will be reviewed by our Campus Climate Team (CCT) made up of KCAD Student Services, the Office of Multicultural Student Services, the Ferris LGBTQ+ Resource Center, and Disability Services.

Share your concerns

 

 

Additional Resources

KCAD DEI Annual Reports