Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
As a graduate student, you aspire to learn material at a deeper level than you encountered in your undergraduate studies. Perhaps you want to contribute new knowledge to your field, do research that will impact public policy, or give back to your community through teaching. Whatever brings you here, and whatever your background or identity, Yale can help you achieve your goals.
Our mission at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences is to educate graduate students to seek answers to life's most challenging questions. We are a community of individuals from many different backgrounds, and we recognize that a diverse student body and faculty enhance every aspect of our community. All races, genders, abilities, citizenships, and identities are welcome here.
The staff and fellows of the Office for Graduate Student Development and Diversity (OGSDD) are invested in maintaining a caring and inclusive community in support of diversity and inclusion. We work collaboratively and proactively with every department or program to support students' needs, and we are eager to work with you to make your experience here personally and academically enriching. We encourage you to take full advantage of the programs that OGSDD provides.
Resources and Support for Current Students
Featured Resource
Office for Graduate Student Development & Diversity (OGSDD)
The Office for Graduate Student Development and Diversity (OGSDD) is committed to building and maintaining a nurturing and caring community of scholars where students from diverse backgrounds and experiences are supported in their professional and intellectual goals and pursuits.
Transitions: First Year Focus Program
Coming to Graduate School at Yale is thrilling, but it can be a little daunting, too, especially if you are from a traditionally underrepresented background. We can help you adjust to the challenges of your new environment. The Transitions program will give you the tools and community support you need.
Office for Graduate Student Development and Diversity Advising
Graduate school can be hard. Sometimes a listening ear, a helpful word of advice from an experienced mentor, or just a warm cup of tea and a place to relax can go a long way. If you find yourself in need of support, we encourage you to reach out and connect with us.
Emerging Scholars Initiative
The Office of the Provost has partnered with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences to create the Emerging Scholars Initiative.
Social Justice Workshops
OGSDD graduate student fellows host Social Justice Workshops during the academic year, covering issues such as race and racism, imposter syndrome, policing, diversity in the academy, and environmental injustice. These workshops provide a forum for graduate students to discuss topical issues in a small group setting, usually over a meal.
Edward A. Bouchet Conference
The annual Yale Bouchet Conference on Diversity and Graduate Education is a dynamic academic conference, drawing New Haven community residents, scholars, administrators, and graduate and undergraduate students from across the nation.
Contact us

Michelle Nearon
Senior Associate Dean for Graduate Student Development and Diversity
- michelle.nearon@yale.edu
- 203-436-1301
- Warner House Room 206

Ksenia Sidorenko
Assistant Dean for Diversity
- ksenia.sidorenko@yale.edu
- 203-436-4171
- Dow Hall Room 406