The University of Mary Washington continually and actively seeks a rich blend of cultural diversity in its faculty and staff, students, curriculum, and activities. The James Farmer Multicultural Center, named after the prominent civil rights leader who taught at the University of Mary Washington, specifically focuses on the academic and social well-being of underrepresented students through programming, mentoring, and leadership opportunities. The Center also offers a wide variety of cultural programming, including the Cultural Awareness Series, which spans the academic year. The programs and activities for the various cultural celebrations highlight and enhance the education and appreciation of differences across the campus community. The series culminates with the Multicultural Fair, which attracts regional attendance.

While inclusion is a goal for all University organizations, several specific interest groups on campus assist in promoting diversity within the University community and offer programs and resources that foster an awareness and understanding of cultural differences and social justice issues, including the Asian Student Association, the Black Student Association, Brothers of a New Direction, the Latino Student Association, Jewish Student Association, Muslim Student Association, S.E.E.D. (Students Educating and Empowering for Diversity), PRISM (People for the Rights of Individuals of Sexual Minorities), Diversability, and Women of Color. Through these many efforts, the University strives to achieve greater diversity and inclusion in its population and a full measure of respect for, and appreciation of, the cultural traditions of all people.