Strathclyde Business School has secured Silver level Athena Swan status for its work to advance gender equality.
The Athena Swan Charter, managed by Advance HE, is a framework to support and transform gender equality within higher education (HE) and research. Members can apply for institutional and departmental Athena Swan awards recognising their gender equality efforts.
The Charter covers the representation of women in academic and professional and managerial and support staff roles. It addresses their journey through career milestones and the working environment for all staff. The Charter also looks at the progression of students into academia.
The awards recognise and reward policies and cultures which build a positive working environment for staff of all genders and at all levels. Examples include flexible working hours, fair and transparent recruitment and promotion policies and practice and strong mentoring, training and career development opportunities.
The Silver departmental award recognises that in addition to university-wide policies the department is working to promote gender equality and to address challenges particular to the discipline.
Strathclyde now holds 16 departmental Athena Swan awards as well an institutional award and this Faculty level award for Strathclyde Business School (encompassing its six departments).
Professor David Hillier, Associate Principal and Executive Dean of Strathclyde Business School, said, “We are very proud to be awarded Silver status from Athena Swan – Strathclyde Business School is committed to progressing the advancement of all students and staff and ensuring we have a diverse, inclusive and supportive environment for all. We will continue to make our business school an environment where everyone can flourish regardless of gender.”
SBS Faculty Manager Caroline Laurie added, “This award is testament to the hard work that goes on in the Business School to ensuring it is an equitable institution and somewhere everyone can reach their full potential without barriers.”
Professor Douglas Brodie, Associate Principal for Social Inclusion and Chair of the University-level Athena Swan Self-Assessment Team, said, "As a socially progressive institution Strathclyde University is delighted by the receipt of this award. It gives us a great deal of encouragement as we continue to seek to advance the cause of gender equality."