Inclusive by Design: Language & Visuals that Reflect Campus Diversity

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Inclusion doesn’t have to start with a sweeping campaign—it can begin with a caption, a color palette, or the decision to show a wider range of student experiences. In this session, we’ll explore how higher ed social media teams can use intentional language and visual storytelling to better reflect the diversity of their campuses. By complementing broader DEI initiatives with everyday inclusive design, we’ll uncover practical ways to create content that fosters belonging, builds trust, and resonates with the students we serve.

Whether you're a one-person team or part of a large communications office, you’ll leave with clear, doable strategies for making your content more inclusive, without needing a new budget or a full rebrand. From visuals to voice, we’ll break down the small choices that can have a big impact.

Takeaways:

• Learn how inclusive language in captions, alt text, and replies can foster a sense of belonging

• Identify easy visual design changes that reflect a broader range of student identities and experiences

• Explore how to assess your current content for representation gaps

• Walk away with a checklist of small but mighty content changes you can implement immediately

• Understand how inclusive content supports broader institutional goals around retention and community-building