About the Institute

Mission Statement

The Institute for Recruitment of Teachers aims to reduce over time the critical underrepresentation of minority groups on the faculties of schools and colleges, as well as to address the attendant educational consequences of these disparities. Providing positive role models to youth, the institute serves the related goals of supporting school and campus environments.

Each year, throughout the graduate school application process, the institute supports outstanding college students and graduates who are committed to diversity and these ideals.

Program History

The Institute for Recruitment of Teachers was founded in 1990 by Kelly Wise, current executive director and former dean of faculty at Phillips Academy, with a mission to “deepen the pool of talented minorities entering the teaching profession in our country.” The institute was designed to increase the number of African American, Latino/a and Native American students pursuing advanced degrees for teaching, counseling and administrative careers so the pool of potential faculty members at both the K-12 and university levels will become more diverse. 

In 2004, the Institute reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating racial disparities at all levels of education and selecting outstanding college students and recent graduates from all diverse backgrounds, including Asians and Caucasians, who are committed to these ideals.

Click on the images below to view the IRT brochure