Welcome to the College of Health and Human Development

I am pleased to serve as the inaugural Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and to welcome you to the newly created Office of Faculty Affairs and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the College of Health and Human Development. The mission of this office is to create a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone in the college can thrive. We do this by honoring and celebrating differences and promoting understanding to create more inclusive environments. We work across units and academic departments to foster an equitable and inclusive community by promoting understanding and appreciation of differences, challenging biases, and systemic barriers, and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Through education, engagement, and action, we strive to create a safe, respectful, and supportive work and learning environment where everyone feels valued and can reach their full potential.

Creating equity and belonging requires focusing on social justice, which involves taking active steps to challenge systemic barriers and address systemic inequalities. We recognize that by being intentional through educational awareness, addressing system barriers, and fostering community we will:

• Provide education and resources to increase understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice issues.

• Examine and change policies, practices, and structures that perpetuate inequalities and prevent individuals from reaching their full potential.

• Build supportive and inclusive communities where all individuals feel valued, respected, and belong.

We are here to support you and encourage your active participation in building a more inclusive and equitable HHD community.

Nicole Webster, Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
College of Health and Human Development