Life University announces new Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

A year after launching a Campus Climate Initiative to better understand how the university was progressing in efforts to be welcoming and inclusive, Life University this summer announced a new Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI).

“After tremendous campus outreach, Life is proud to welcome the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) to its campus during this time of social unrest,” said Life University President Rob Scott, DC, PhD. “The ODEI strives to make Life University a leading institution for inclusive excellence where people of all identities, perspectives and experiences find a welcoming environment where multiplicity, parity and inclusiveness are unwavering values.”

The office operates from a mission statement of serving “the Life University community as a leader, resource and support across all areas of the institution.The office aims to foster a diverse and inclusive environment through its programs, policies and partnerships in alignment with the University’s 2020 Strategic Plan for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.”

Karoline N. Oliveira, EdD, was named the interim executive director for the Life University ODEI.

“I look forward to working across the institution in support of the university’s strategic goals for inclusive excellence,” Oliveira said. “Recognizing that our success is dependent on how well we value and engage the rich diversity of our students, employees, and alumni, ODEI is committed to honoring Life’s guiding principle of ‘Lasting Purpose’ within a social justice framework.”

The Life University ODEI will look to promote inclusive excellence through:

• Accountability — ODEI monitors and measures progress of the university’s Strategic Plan for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
• Recruitment and Retention — ODEI works to support campus-wide efforts to recruit and retain diverse students, faculty and staff.
• Professional Development — ODEI oversees the Life University Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training Program.
• Promotions and Collaborations — ODEI collaborates with departments, committees and student groups across campus to design and promote programs and events related to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Core values of the office are encouraging development from a vitalistic, diverse and inclusive perspective; affirming the intersecting identities of community members; advancing cultural competence throughout the institution; and modeling ‘Lasting Purpose,’ integrity, and social justice.

For more information go to https://tinyurl.com/y49gebqw.