Dear Spartans,
As I prepared to join the San José State University community, I learned that two leaders of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) were leaving their roles in January. I am deeply appreciative of all the work that has been done to foster an environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. I look forward to continuing this work that will help each member of our uniquely diverse groups of students, staff, and faculty feel supported and affirmed.
While we search for the new Chief Diversity Officer, I have asked Dawn Lee, Ph.D., an expert in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to serve as a Special Consultant to the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She brings 19 years of experience working on DEI issues and will support the university and office’s missions through a variety of activities including curriculum development, training, and collaborations with the staff.
I will continue to communicate updates in ODEI and on the recently launched national search for a Chief Diversity Officer. In the meantime, I encourage you to engage with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at [email protected] for their expertise and resources. Our institution's success depends on each of us to be equity-minded stewards, individually and collectively responsible for creating a learning space rooted in respect and inclusivity.
Sincerely,
Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson
President
(She/Her/Ella)
