Honoring a Legacy of Inclusion and Excellence
As the nation’s first HBCU, Cheyney University has always been rooted in access, equity, and opportunity. Our student body reflects a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, cultures, and lived experiences — all contributing to a vibrant campus where every student is seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Diversity at Cheyney is not just a number; it’s the heart of our mission and the foundation of our community.
Why Diversity is Important to Cheyney
Cheyney’s commitment to diversity is woven into everything we do — from academic programs and student support services to leadership development and campus life. A broad mix of identities and perspectives helps our students grow academically, personally, and professionally. It strengthens critical thinking, builds cultural competence, and prepares graduates to thrive in an interconnected world.
Student Population Overview
Cheyney’s student body reflects a wide range of identities, lived experiences, and perspectives. Each year, the University reports demographic information in accordance with federal requirements so students, families, and community members can better understand our campus makeup.
To view the most recent enrollment and population data, including demographics by race/ethnicity, gender, and academic level, please refer to the detailed report below:
Download The Student Diversity Fact Sheet (PDF) ↓
Cheyney University’s enrollment data by ethnicity, gender, and Pell grant recipient can also be accessed at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Click here to view the data that NCES has collected.
Access, Inclusion & Belonging
Cheyney fosters an environment where students from all walks of life feel welcome and valued. Our programs focus on supporting students through:
- Academic advising and mentoring
- Student success initiatives
- Counseling and wellness resources
- Cultural and identity-based organizations
- Campus traditions that celebrate heritage and community
Click here for more information about Accessibility Services for Students at Cheyney.
First-Generation & Low-Income Student Support
As part of Cheyney’s legacy of access, we proudly serve a high number of first-generation and Pell-eligible students. Through intentional advising, peer networks, leadership opportunities, and support partnerships, we ensure students have what they need not just to enroll — but to thrive.
Commitment to Ongoing Equity
Cheyney University remains deeply committed to cultivating an inclusive, affirming, and equitable learning environment for all students. Our work is ongoing and intentional, grounded in both our historic mission and our vision for the future. Equity at Cheyney is not a stand-alone initiative — it’s woven into the fabric of our academic programs, campus culture, student services, and community engagement.
Cheyney continues to strengthen equity and inclusion through:
- Culturally responsive teaching practices
- Diverse hiring and leadership representation
- Pipeline programs and community partnerships
- Continuous assessment of campus climate
- Initiatives that promote belonging, safety, and student success
As our campus evolves, so does our commitment. We are dedicated to regularly evaluating our practices, listening to student and community voices, and ensuring that every member of the Cheyney family feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.