Search Committee Members’ Perspectives on Diversity Statements in STEM Faculty Job Applications

ABSTRACT Faculty search committees use diversity statements as a component of job applications in an effort to increase the representation of racially and ethnically minoritized (REM) faculty members and to assess if prospective faculty members can contribute to an institutional culture that is respectful and supportive of all students, faculty, and staff, regardless of identity. In recent years, diversity statements have been politicized as loyalty oaths and some state laws have banned their use at public institutions of higher education, although some public institutions in other states and private institutions still require applicants to submit them. This paper presents an explanatory mixed methods study to answer the questions: (1) How prevalent are diversity statement requirements for STEM faculty hiring? (2) Do diversity statement requirements differ by institution type? (3) To what extent do universities equip search committees to evaluate diversity statements? We deployed a nationwide survey to STEM faculty members and administrators experienced in faculty search processes and conducted follow‐up interviews with a subset of respondents. Our results produced recommendations for both the effective use of diversity statements, and for academic leaders in states where they are not allowed, suggestions for evaluating faculty applicants’ ability to effectively collaborate with people and partners who have different backgrounds and perspectives.