About Us
Our Mission
Our mission is to ensure that under-represented groups are fully engaged in computing and information technologies, and to promote innovation that enriches, enhances, and enables these communities, such that more equitable and sustainable contributions are possible by all communities.
Our Focus
CMD-IT is the national Center for Minorities and People with Disabilities in Information Technology that is focused on the following under-represented groups: African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, and People with Disabilities. The center is comprised of corporations, academic institutions, government agencies, and non-profits.
Why do we need more cultural diversity in computing and IT?
Cultural diversity in our workforce is not only important for nurturing a more inclusive society; it is crucial to the creative innovation process that drives our economy. Numbers alone are not sufficient; we should strive to make the benefits of IT available to all communities, including communities who might otherwise not receive them.
Fortunately these two goals work hand in hand; innovative use of IT for under-represented communities inspires students to go into computing, and greater cultural diversity in the IT workforce provides more innovation.
Our Goals
United Voice
Provide a voice, spoken by many, that identifies the major issues facing African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, and People with Disabilities in IT.
Leadership Initiatives
Promote leadership among students, faculty, and professionals from the under-represented groups.
Resources
Provide information and statistics related to programs, organizations, and alliances focused on African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, and People with Disabilities in Computing and Information Technology.
National-Scale Projects
Facilitate projects that involve collaborations between established programs and organizations, with measurable goals focused on engagement and enrichment.
Get Involved
We invite you to become involved in CMD-IT by becoming a Partner, participating in a Community of Practice, providing resources, or donating.