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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Three students smile, one gives thumbs up
Guided by the Hallmarks of a Notre Dame education, the NDB Community is committed to educating the whole person - body, mind and spirit. We are a compassionate community devoted to lifelong learning. We educate for and act on behalf of justice and peace in the world, and we embrace the gift of diversity. Four of our Hallmarks, in particular, speak to our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion:
 
Dignify All: We honor the dignity and sacredness of each person.
Act for Peace and Justice: We educate for and act on behalf of justice and peace in the world.
Embrace Diversity: We embrace the gift of diversity.
Learn for Life: We develop holistic learning communities which educate for life.

NDB's emphasis on community and diversity creates an inclusive environment for students. Whether it is through celebrating heritage months, serving a culture-inspired lunch, discussing various cultures in the classroom, or acknowledging our land before an assembly, I can see and appreciate the focus on DEI. As a Muslim from Pakistan, I feel accepted at NDB, and this encouragement to talk about my faith and culture gives me the confidence to share with not only with people within this community but also outside it.

Aleeya Baqai

Aleeya Baqai 
Student '26

As a Vietnamese student at NDB, I'm grateful to be part of a high school that truly values diversity, equity and inclusion. Notre Dame isn't just a school; it's a community that stands out for its kind and judgment-free atmosphere. In a world where inclusivity can be rare, being a part of this environment is amazing. I truly feel that NDB provides a space where every student can grow, regardless of their background.

Claire Nuygen

Claire Nguyen
Student '26

Notre Dame is a supportive community for all its students, and everyone is very respectful and kind to each other. When I first came to NDB, I was surprised with how inclusive and accepting my teachers were! They truly care for every student. Teachers and fellow students helped make me feel safe as an LGBTQ+ person in a new environment. Now I hope to give back to this community by offering the Rainbow Club as a safe space for LGBTQ+ students and allies to celebrate our identities and diversity.

Loki Ingalls

Loki Ingalls
Student '26

At NDB, diversity is a a bridge, connecting students from different backgrounds, fostering inclusivity, acceptance and celebrating the beauty of culture variation.

Isabella Lo

Isabella Lo
Student '25

NDB provides a nurturing and accepting environment where every student is valued and respected, regardless of their background or individual traits. From culture shares to workshops and discussions, students can embrace their unique traits and learn from one another.

Nina Peixoto

Nina Peixoto 
Student '26

Having an education space for students who were all assigned female at birth, regardless of gender identity or expression, and girls or femmes, is beneficial because there can be a level of safety and security in learning while empowering each other to learn more, think differently, question, try and even fail. The camaraderie and community is so vital at any phase of life, but particularly at this formative time.

G

G Imazumi-Hegarty '07
ISP, BND and Spanish Teacher, Registrar

Group of students smile

The Coalition for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The Coalition for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) is a newly formed leadership board dedicated to promoting a culture of DEIB within our school community. The board drives initiatives that highlight and celebrate diversity, collaborates and amplifies various student clubs, and organizes events and activities throughout the year. With a focus on fostering inclusivity and lifelong learning, the coalition plays a key role in enhancing our community’s engagement with DEIB principles. Members participate in regular meetings and contribute to broader efforts, helping to ensure that everyone feels valued and respected.

Group of students smile

Black Student Union (BSU)

BSU Mission

The Black Student Union is committed to celebrating Black culture, educating the community, and amplifying the voices of Black students. We aim to foster a sense of belonging and unity, promoting cultural awareness, leadership, and allyship. Embracing cultural humility, we are dedicated to lifelong learning and consistently showing up for each other. Our inclusive membership welcomes all identities while centering around the Black experience. Our mission is to create a supportive community that empowers all members to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

BSU Vision

The Black Student Union envisions a thriving community where Africana students are empowered to grow politically, socially, culturally, and professionally while embracing and expressing their authentic selves. We strive to create an inclusive environment that celebrates Black excellence, fosters meaningful connections, and advocates for equity and justice within our institution and beyond. Through our collective efforts, we aim to inspire and equip our members to become influential leaders and change-makers in all facets of society.

Rainbow Club and Intersectional Feminism Club

Started and ran by students and for students, the Rainbow Club and the Intersectional Feminism Club provide a platform for students to discuss pertinent topics, create solutions and celebrate diversity.

I am Diverse Club

I am Diverse Club members

The I am Diverse Club is dedicated to understanding and honoring the diverse cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds that are essential to the learning and development of the NDB Community.

Día de Muertos

Dia de los Muertos Offrenda

NDB celebrates Dia de Los Metros, where students cretae ofrendas (offerings) to honor their departed loved ones. 

Lunar New Year

Students celebrate Lunar New Year

Students celebrated the beginning of the Year of the Dragon with table top games, calligraphy and prizes! Some of the most competitive games involved races using chopsticks to pick up tictacs, and guessing different fruit juices. Students also got to see cultural garb and hear about their classmates favorite ways to bring in the Lunar New Year!

Diwali

The I am Diverse Club holds an annual Diwali celebration. Students come together to eat gulab jamun, paint diyas, listen to music and learn all about the festival of lights. Notre Dame also placed a rangoli in the front of school to bring prosperity and good luck by welcoming the Hindu goddess, Lakshmi!

Statement on Diversity

Notre Dame Belmont admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities of the school, and the school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation and national and ethnic origin in school-administered programs.

Statement on Gender Diversity

Notre Dame Belmont opened its doors in 1851 with a vision to educate young women at a time when such opportunities were often only available to boys and men. In keeping with the mission of NDB, the school is dedicated to nurturing the full potential of all students: mind, body and spirit. As our understanding of gender continues to expand to a more inclusive spectrum of identities and expressions, NDB will remain committed to providing support based on the emotional, social and academic needs of each student.

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