REDI or Not? The Experiences of Equity-Deserving Students in the Wake of Massification and Widening Participation

It can be argued that while post-secondary institutions in Canada are actively engaged in reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion (REDI) efforts, the evidence regarding how or if these initiatives are being incorporated into student support services is lacking. The shift from elite to mass to universal access in higher education has been a primary catalyst for increased access and the diversification of the student body. While this expansion has been beneficial, the administrative and support systems required to accommodate these changes have not evolved at the same rate. This has resulted in a number of challenges for student support services that impact students’ ability to get the supports they need, and in a timely fashion.