1st Edition
Chief Diversity Officers in Higher Education Today Narratives of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
In this edited volume, diversity practitioners in the field of higher education speak about the transformative journeys that led them to become Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs).
Not always an easy path, chapter authors lay bare the challenges and successes of doing this important work in a society that is becoming increasingly hostile to their efforts. The narratives in this intriguing volume unpack the various pathways for DEI practitioners to practice their craft, step into the CDO role, and maintain a sense of self and wholeness while doing so. Full of wisdom and practical insights, this volume helps CDOs understand how to focus on educational priorities that champion access and affordability, equity and social mobility, belonging, and the promise of education, while building bridges across differences. Chapters conclude with key insights to reiterate major lessons from each author’s journey, along with guiding questions for reflection.
Chief Diversity Officers in Higher Education Today is written for practitioners at all levels of higher education, but especially aspiring diversity, equity, and inclusion leaders. It’s also an important resource for current CDOs in their efforts to support institutions seeking to fulfill their educational mission and strengthen the enrichment of undergraduate, graduate, and professional level scholars.
Part 1: Pathway and Purpose
1. Wouldn’t Take Nothing for My Journey Now
Sylvia Carey-Butler
2. Feeding my ‘Superpower’ or Embracing my Spirit
R. Adidi Etim-Hunting
3. Negotiating Your Non-Negotiables
Sonia J. Toson
4. The Journey, The Struggle, and The Progress
Tamara A. Johnson
Part 2: Impact and Transformation
5. Dialogue and ‘DEI’: Two Sides of the Same Coin of Justice
Ed Lee III
6. A Framework for the Sustainability of WOC DEIA+ Practitioners: A Queen’s Collective
Alexis J. Stokes, Sherri H. Benn, Luz Janet Mejias, Angela N. Spranger, Caryn Reed-Hendon, J. Camille Hall, Ria DasGupta, and R. Adidi Etim-Hunting
7. The Extraordinary Power of Kindness: Reshaping Organizational Culture as a CDO
Yves-Rose Porcena
Part 3: Perfecting the Pivot
8. From Boardrooms to Breakthroughs: Perfecting the Pivot
TaJuan R. Wilson
9. History of a CDO’s Journey Over 50 Years
Benjamin D. Reese, Jr.
10. Navigating Nepantla
Carolyn J. Morales
11. Coda: We Can Build the World We Want to See: Reflections on the Roots, Branches, and Future of DEI Work
Anneliese Singh
Biography
Carol E. Henderson is Vice Provost for Diversity and Inclusion, Chief Diversity Officer, and Advisor to the President at Emory University, USA, and Professor Emerita of English and Africana Studies at the University of Delaware, USA.
“This book is a major contribution to the literature on chief diversity officers in higher education. These stories and narratives offer a powerful insight into the tenacity of these leaders, practitioners, and scholars as they tackled the critical issues of justice, equity, and diversity at multiple levels. The powerful lessons of wisdom and courage are so valuable as we continue to navigate the pursuit for equity and justice in higher education at such a time as this. Kudos to you Dr. Henderson for this provocative collection and your vision and sacrifice!”
Cheryl Davenport Dozier, Former Associate Provost for Institutional Diversity, University of Georgia, USA, and President Emerita, Savannah State University, USA
“Henderson’s book, Chief Diversity Officers in Higher Education Today, is a timely important read and resource given recent challenges and attacks of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) efforts in the academy. This insightful and important collection is a reminder of the inherent significance of JEDI efforts benefiting everyone and the role and challenges JEDI leaders have as change agents for continued inclusion in the academy by rethinking policies, organizational structures, and more. The book is also a reminder how stories and history contribute to survival and growth by staying true to the values that bring one to JEDI work. Henderson’s book provides an important space for truths to be shared by new and elder voices about their experiences and work in the academy within the context of respect for self and others that broadens the path to educational justice for all.”
Nancy “Rusty” Barceló, Equity & Diversity Consultant, President (Ret.), Northern New Mexico College, USA
“The dark clouds of opposition have formed over the DEI profession, and there is no better time than now for a sober voice of reason, compassion, and hope. Henderson, a remarkable friend, connector, and collaborator, has brought together an august group of current and former Chief Diversity Officers as a ray of sunshine to split the gloomy clouds of frustration and weariness. As you read their words and hear their stories of resilience, self-care, and an enduring commitment to justice, I invite you to take note and follow their example in your circle of influence.”
William T. Lewis, Former Chief Diversity Officer
“In this acute period of backlash against progress, the voices of these pioneers of the diversity, equity, and inclusion framework in higher education resonates powerfully and purposefully. These leaders speak authentically about their work and contributions, in stark contrast to the false narratives being pushed by forces who have been at work for years, now finding their moment. But this astounding collection situates us in the reality and necessity of diversity, equity, and inclusion to the core purposes of the University. Dr. Henderson’s collection communicates essential truths about our work - that it is about excellence, compassion, passion for evidenced-based examination and charting the path forward. Simply put, we need this book right now to sustain us, reaffirm our value and to correct the record.”
Kimberly Hewitt, Vice President for Institutional Equity and Chief Diversity Officer, Duke University, USA
“Despite the vast majority of colleges and universities stating their commitment to inclusiveness, for many it is just words. Beyond the strictly academic, this important compendium provides pragmatic strategies and actions that will create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. It should be required reading for all those in higher education.”
Paul L. Marciano, President, Whiteboard, LLC
This immersive collection of insights, stories and essays is an absolute must-read for DEIA+ practitioners, regardless of field and across private sector and public service—as either foresight for DEI newcomers or as an essential recharge for veteran equity practitioners. The wisdom shared by Dr. Henderson’s carefully curated group of Chief Diversity Officers, including the mapping of individual and institutional DEI journeys, is practical and instantly applicable, and a long-overdue validation of the impact that the fierce pursuit of authenticity and integrity, the remarkable demands of conflict resolution and psychological first-responding, has had and will continue to have on the well-being and effectiveness of champions of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in complex bureaucracies—most acutely experienced by CDOs. In studying the generosity of learning and self-reflection, so practically packaged in a non-linear arrangement (as progress in representation and fairness is rarely linear), this assortment of leadership-level perspectives serves as the Executive MBA program for DEIA+ practitioners that I wish actually existed.
Alden E. Habacon, Principal and CEO, Inclusive Excellence Strategy Solutions Inc.
