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In my teaching, research, and community activities in Canada, I have repeatedly confronted questions regarding equality, diversity, and power. How can equality of opportunity be extended to less-privileged groups in higher education? What are the criteria for identifying the marginalized in society? Is economic condition a more adequate basis for admission to university than race, ethnicity, and gender? Should universities promote equality, diversity—or both? As members of the Comparative and International Education Society, we bring unique perspectives to these questions. How, then, can we contribute to a greater understanding of the world and human development? And, how can our studies mitigate inequality in access to education in countries of the South and of the North?

Here I wish to discuss diversity and equal opportunity to achieve excellence in education. Reflecting on these issues should help us to …