Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI)

We cultivate a culture of inclusion where diverse talent is leveraged to advance health discovery.

The Department of Commerce (DOC) is committed to implementing Executive Order 14035 and has developed the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Strategic Plan 2022–2024.

By fostering a culture of diversity — or a capacity to appreciate and value individual differences — employers benefit from varied perspectives on how to confront business challenges and achieve success. The term refers to the infinite range of individuals' unique attributes and experiences such as ethnicity, gender, age, and disability. Since disability is a natural part of diversity, businesses can benefit by taking steps to ensure people with disabilities are represented in their workforce.

We celebrate the differences that make each North Carolinian, Commerce employee, culture, region, community, industry and business unique, and are committed to prioritizing DEI in everything we do – from employee relations to business practices, to collaborations and partnerships within the economic and workforce development community. Our goal is to lead by example in cultivating an environment – and state – where all people feel valued, respected, and safe to bring their whole self to work. North Carolina’s economy should be one that works for all people of this great state.

NC State values diversity, equity, inclusion and justice. As a public university — a university of the people — it’s essential that we welcome and support everyone in our community. That’s why a commitment to a stronger and more inclusive institutional culture is enshrined in our strategic plan.

The Office for Equity and Diversity (OED) engages in programming, compliance, and outreach to foster a diverse and inclusive living, learning, and working community. Through leadership and partnerships, we will provide dynamic educational experiences, prepare our students to lead in a global multicultural society, and engage the region with inclusive social and economic opportunities.