We’re new to this. Diversity agendas in public Spanish universities according to their leaders

Abstract

The debate about diversity in Spanish universities is fairly recent, and indeed non-existent from the perspective of leadership. This paper examines the descriptions and justifications given by leaders of public universities in Spain with regard to institutional diversity agendas, as well as actions taken or planned to include traditionally excluded collectives within higher education. A total of 32 public university leaders were interviewed from 5 universities. Results show different interpretations of diversity agendas, with them being explained in different ways and being perceived as having different purposes (naturalization, difference, and inequality). Each interpretation is differentiated by its reach, motivation, stance with regard to the institution, target groups, and proposals. Reports overlap and share three common agendas. This demonstrates a lack of clarity around conceptions of diversity and shows the impact of assuming different standpoints when exercising leadership to evaluate a given agenda.