Dear colleagues,

Today, I am celebrating the unwavering dedication and accomplishments you have all contributed to make our third year at the Office of Inclusive Excellence (OIE) successful. I reaffirm our steadfast commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) yet again. It was my house to build, a foundation of shared values and principles. But it continues to be your home to use as shelter and innovate in.

I am acutely aware that our body of work is under attack nationally, with equity-based discourse at the forefront of all issues. Yet, I remain resolute that DEI is not a political catchphrase or a passing fad. We owe it to each soul that adds to the why behind OIE.

Robin Clayton will soon be transitioning into the role of interim Associate Dean for Inclusive Excellence. Her acceptance of this position is a privilege for us all, as she has been an instrumental and irreplaceable partner in embedding DEI models into the College. Her contributions have been pivotal to OIE’s mission and vision.

Robin’s critical role in pacing and tracking our progress has been more than impactful. Her collaboration with Joyce Yen, director of ADVANCE Center for Institutional Change, to create the Hiring Dashboard has emerged as a prime example of embracing DEI models. It is now being adapted by other units across the university. The trainings and workshops she has developed to disseminate across departments have not only helped us reach our strategic goals but have enriched the College functioning.

It doesn’t even feel like passing the baton. Robin’s advocacy for the conception and upliftment of OIE is a testament to how her leadership will only elevate our work. I encourage everyone to grow this bubble of positivity that transcends agendas and politics.

Our approach is data-driven, holistic and inclusive. Together, let us honor the sharp edges our community members have and support them in becoming the best square possible rather than forcing them into some pre-determined circle of stereotypes and old narratives. This home of ours has a diverse display of rich art from our collective achievements. Let’s continue to add to the collection.

Sincerely,

Dr. Karen Thomas-Brown

Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As we stand united to forge a path toward a diverse, equitable and inclusive College of Engineering, I am filled with excitement and gratitude. Our journey so far has been marked by significant successes, both front-facing and behind-the-scenes. Our most recent accomplishments include the addition of new team members—Antonia Dorn, manager of inclusive excellence initiatives and Catherine Thomas, Engineering Dean’s Scholars manager.

In my new role, I am looking forward to furthering the supportive environment that our departmental DEI partners champion every day. I hope you will join me in making DEI a priority for the College. It is by uniting on our differences that we can unlock the fullest potential of our innovations.

Yours sincerely,

Robin Neal Clayton
Director of Engineering Excellence

The Office of Inclusive Excellence leads strategic change to transform the culture of the College of Engineering. Our work includes supporting student development, providing leadership training and growing our population of students with diverse backgrounds. Learn more about the College's DEI work.