The ADVANCE Program focuses on four areas relevant to the success of a diverse and excellent faculty: recruitment, retention, climate, and leadership development. Together, these encompass not only multiple stages of faculty careers but also multiple mechanisms by which faculty diversity and excellence at U-M are enhanced. The strategies we use to address our goals can be broadly categorized as: research and evaluation; knowledge and skill development; community building; and resources and support.

Initially focusing on institutional transformation with respect to women faculty in science and engineering fields (2002 NSF ADVANCE IT Grant proposal), the program has expanded to address necessary institutional changes to support the needs of a diverse faculty in all fields. Many of the strategies we develop also are relevant to postdoctoral fellows, students, and staff. As such, we consult and collaborate with various campus constituents and welcome requests to tailor our programs to specific institutional needs or goals.

ADVANCE works directly with many departments, schools and colleges to support their efforts to bring positive changes to the work environment. We also offer many documents (handbooks, and handouts), research reports, lists of resources and programs (workshops, group discussions, seminars) that are designed to facilitate departmental, school and college efforts.