Inclusive Excellence

Building a campus where every student, employee, and visitor can thrive. 

At the Universities at Shady Grove, inclusive excellence is more than a commitment—it is the foundation for how we learn, collaborate, and support one another. We are committed to fostering a campus where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging expand opportunity, enrich the educational experience, and help every member of our community thrive. We recognize that diversity includes visible and invisible identities, experiences, and perspectives, and we strive to create an environment where every person feels respected, valued, and empowered to succeed. 

Who Learns at USG

USG's unique partnership model brings together students from nine University System of Maryland institutions, creating a campus experience unlike any other in Maryland. While students earn their degrees from one of USG's partner universities, they come together on the Shady Grove campus to learn, connect, and build community.

Students who study at USG bring diverse identities, experiences, perspectives, and educational pathways to campus. As a community that includes transfer students, adult learners, first-generation college students, military-connected students, students with varying abilities, and learners from across the region, USG reflects the many communities it serves.

The following demographic data offer one snapshot of the students who study at USG. While they highlight select characteristics, they do not capture every identity, experience, or perspective represented within our campus community.

Racial and Ethnic Diversity

Among undergraduate students studying at USG, approximately 26% identify as Hispanic or Latino, 23% as White, 20% as Black or African American, 17% as Asian, and 14% identify with another race or ethnicity or did not report their race or ethnicity.

Among graduate students studying at USG, 30% identify as White, 30% as Black or African American, 20% identify with another race or ethnicity or did not report their race or ethnicity, 11% identify as Hispanic or Latino, and 9% as Asian. Together, these data reflect the broad range of backgrounds represented across USG's academic programs.

Learners at Every Stage

Students at USG represent a wide range of life stages and educational journeys. The average age of an undergraduate student is 25, with a median age of 23. Graduate students have an average age of 36 and a median age of 33, reflecting the many adult learners and working professionals who balance their education with careers, families, military service, and other responsibilities. 

Gender Representation

Among undergraduate students studying at USG, 59% identify as Female or assigned female at birth (AFAB) and 41% identify as Male or assigned male at birth (AMAB). Among graduate students, 72% identify as Female or AFAB and 28% identify as male or AMAB.

While these data provide valuable insight into our campus population, they represent only part of what makes the USG community unique. Behind every statistic is a person with distinct experiences, aspirations, identities, and goals. Together, students from many backgrounds and perspectives contribute to a welcoming campus where learning is enriched through connection, collaboration, and mutual respect.

Inclusive Excellence in Action

Inclusive excellence comes to life through the experiences, programs, and services that support students every day. Whether connecting with peers, participating in educational programs, or accessing resources that promote academic success and well-being, students who study at USG are part of a campus where belonging, engagement, and opportunity go hand in hand.

Student Engagement

Connect with over 30 student organizations and affinity groups, as well as leadership opportunities, that foster meaningful relationships, leadership development, and campus involvement.

Educational Programming

Participate in cultural awareness programs, heritage month celebrations, workshops, guest speakers, and community dialogue that broaden perspectives, encourage meaningful conversations, and promote lifelong learning.

Student Support

Access academic services, accessibility resources, wellness initiatives, Title IX resources, and other programs designed to help every student succeed.