Diversity, equal opportunities and inclusion are important guiding principles at the University of St.Gallen (HSG). They are the basis for excellence, innovation and societal contribution – in research and teaching as well as in everyday campus life. Science depends as much on the diversity of researchers and their perspectives as it does on the diversity of research topics and methods. A respectful and fair approach to diversity supports all university members in fully realising their potential both during and after their time at the University – in line with the motto 'empowering talents, inspiring leaders'.
HSG has a designated office for diversity, equality and inclusion (DE&I). On the one hand, it offers confidential advice and support for students and faculty and professional staff on issues like access arrangements, mental health and balancing studies, work, and parenthood. On the other hand, it develops strategies and measures to promote equality, diversity and inclusion in dialogue with other HSG units. Protecting personal integrity and ensuring accessibility play a key role in this. The recommendations of the DE&I Office are evidence-based and aligned with the University's strategic direction and the legal framework.
One example of this is the Implicit Bias Tool, a training software used in academic appointment procedures. It helps decision-makers to recognise and break down implicit biases. "The training opened my eyes to how subtle biases can be – and how we can actively design fairer processes," stated one of the participants.
The Diversity Monitoring Report, published at regular intervals, highlights progress made. By 2023, the proportion of women in the faculty has increased by ten percentage points to 28 % since 2019. In 2025, the report will be converted to a digital format, enabling a more dynamic presentation of changes in various diversity dimensions, such as gender or origin. Additionally, the DE&I Office encourages and supports the use of appreciative and non-discriminatory language.
HSG also takes a clear stance on discrimination and harassment. The HSG Ethics Code and the Guideline on the Protection of Personal Integrity define respectful interaction as a fundamental principle within HSG. The DE&I Office, the Ombuds Office and the Psychological Counselling Services office support all HSG members in dealing with challenging situations. Since 2023, a comprehensive programme on the Day Against Sexual Harassment has helped to promote a culture of awareness, while reporting procedures have been, and continue to be, enhanced.
An inclusive campus climate is also a heartfelt concern of our students. Numerous student initiatives contribute to building and sustaining it. For example, the student association Universa supports female students in all matters relating to their studies, careers and further development. The events surrounding PRIDE Month send an important signal for more visibility and solidarity. Since the beginning of 2025, the Equality Committee has also provided financial support to DE&I projects initiated by members of HSG in order to promote structural change on a broad basis – a further step on the path to greater inclusion and participation.
The promotion of diversity, equality and inclusion is also part of the academic identity at HSG reflected in the research of scholars such as Professor Christa Binswanger, Professor Jamie Gloor, Professor Stefan Böhm, and Professor Julia Nentwich on topics such as men's allyship, gender bias in the workplace, or inclusive leadership. The Competence Centre for Diversity, Disability and Inclusion (CCDI) is also an important driver of evidence-based practice and knowledge transfer – for example, through its annual Gender Intelligence Report and public discussion forums on inclusion in the workplace. These themes are also embedded in HSG’s academic programmes, with courses such as Inclusive Leadership taught by Dr Ines Hartmann in the Contextual Studies programme or Diversity & Inclusion in the Context of Innovation led by Professor Maximilian Palmié in the Master in Business Innovation programme. For further information, please refer to the Teaching and Research of this report.
The President's Delegate for Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion, Professor Anastasia Kartasheva, responsible for the university-wide strategic orientation and systemic integration of these concepts. The delegate is supported by the DE&I Office, which is housed within the Quality & Sustainability division in the Vice-President’s Board for Innovation & Quality. This structural integration represents a broader vision of quality at HSG, with sustainability and diversity & inclusion as integral components of academic and institutional excellence.
Promoting inclusion and diversity is an ongoing process and a constant challenge that requires continuous commitment at all levels. At HSG, students, faculty and professional staff are pursuing this path together – with openness, critical reflection, and a shared commitment to shaping a university where diversity is seen as a strength.
