Building on the Diversity Training Circle's (now Diversity Facilitation program) "History of Diversity at the University of Maryland" presentation, OHRP developed the Diversity Timeline Traveling Pictorial Display to illustrate, with pictures and text, what is discussed in the presentation. With assistance from campus library and historical foundation archivists, the display was originally developed for a campus-wise Hate Crimes Awareness Week program, coordinated by the Department of Resident Life in collaboration with other campus units, including OHRP, to celebrate how far Maryland has come in affirming diversity despite obstacles.

The display is currently housed in our Office, and can be viewed any time. It can also be used by any campus unit to enhance their diversity programming efforts.

1856

The direct precursor of today's university, the Maryland Agricultural College, was founded to educate the sons of Maryland's gentleman farmers.

1885

One African American graduated from law school.

1930s

Women began enrolling in more significant numbers.

1934

Donald Murray, an African American male, sued the University to attend law school. He won the case and professional schools officially opened to African Americans.

1954

Brown v. Board of Education officially ends segregation in the United States. Two African-American undergraduates were admitted to the University without incident.

1969

Desegregation mandate by the U.S. Office of Civil Rights, a directive which remains in effect today.

1984

Chancellor John Slaughter challenged the campus to become a "model multiracial, multicultural, and multigenerational academic community."

1986

The Diversity Initiative began with day-long programs sponsored by the Office of Human Relations Programs.

1989

University President William E. Kirwan reaffirmed the University's commitment to diversity during his inaugural address. "At College Park, our efforts to build excellence are inextricably linked to our efforts to increase diversity..,. College Park must be a place where diversity is not only tolerated, but celebrated."

1993

The Diversity Initiative developed into a ongoing, comprehensive mission of the University.

1994

· Podberesky v. Kirwan. (Banneker Scholarship)

· Diversity News Bureau established at the University in the Office of Public Information.

1995

Asian, Hispanic, and Native American Task Force Report issued.

1996

"Embracing Diversity" Report issued. Report estimated that 10% of the campus population is gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

1997

· DiversityWeb and Newsroom debuted on the World Wide Web. With a grant from the Ford Foundation and in partnership with AAC&U, the websites were created as resources on diversity for higher education and the media.

· President's Commission on Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Issues was formed.