Augsburg University is committed in its mission to foster “intentional diversity in its life and work,” and this specifically includes gender and sexual diversity.
In 2009, Augsburg was named a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) institution by Reconciling Works: Lutherans for Full Participation, meaning the University is welcoming and affirming of all people in regard to their gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
“As a university of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and as a community of the people of God, we believe that we are called to serve our neighbor, knowing that the world is often an unjust and unloving place.
“We affirm with the apostle Paul that in Christ ‘there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female’ (Galatians 3:28). Christ has made us one. We acknowledge this reconciliation extends to people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
“We wish to make known that all God’s children are welcome in our community. We especially affirm that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons and their families are our neighbors. It is for this purpose that we affirm the following: that people of all sexual orientations and gender identities share the worth that comes from being unique individuals created by God; that people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome with the Augsburg University community; and that as members of this community, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are expected and encouraged to share in the common life of this college.”
Approved by the Augsburg Board of Regents on July 19, 2009.