Pacific Lutheran University
PAE-6: Diversity and Equity Coordination

The purpose of the University Diversity Committee is to monitor and enhance the overall progress of the university in carrying out its PLU 2010 commitment to develop a more diverse community of students and employees, including enhancement of the diversity of students and personnel as well as continued development of an inclusive, affirming, and non-discriminatory environment.

Laura Majovski, Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students, Co-Chair Teri Phillips, Director of Human Resource Services, Co-Chair Karl Stumo, Vice President for Admission and Enrollment Services Eva Frey Johnson, Director of Student Involvement and Leadership Ron Noborikawa, Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid Jan Lewis, Associate Provost for Curriculum Brian Desmond, Assistant Professor of Theatre Marianne Taylor, Assistant Professor of Psychology Erin Milliren, ASPLU Diversity Director Thomas Siburg, RHA Spiritual Activities & Social Justice Director Karter Booher and Pam Martin, Student Representatives Advisory Members: Angie Hambrick, Director of the Diversity Center Melannie Cunningham, Associate Director of Admission, Coordinator of Multicultural Recruiting

Our Diversity Center is an inclusive and inviting space for students to hang out and enjoy community. The Diversity Center has an open door policy that encourages students to come in, eat lunch, finish homework, talk about life at PLU, ask questions, and more. In addition to the open door policy, the Diversity Center also programs weekly and monthly activities that provide unique opportunities to learn about and socialize with other cultures. Students who have found the Diversity Center to be a resource comment on the welcoming atmosphere, openness of student Diversity Advocates, the inviting space for questions and learning, and the chance to just be a regular student in a comfortable setting.

The PLU Diversity Center Director initiates and supports programs and services that enrich the university’s efforts to be a multicultural learning community and serves as a support person for the diverse student population. The Director oversees the daily operation of the Diversity Center, monitors, supports, and assesses programs and activities implemented by the Center and assists with campus programs that support the development of students and the mission of PLU. The Director for the Diversity Center plays a key role by actively contributing to the culture and community of Pacific Lutheran University while supporting and maintaining the vision of the Diversity Center.

The 24 people employed by the Diversity Center are: 1 Professional Staff Member (Director) 4 Student Diversity Advocates 39 Rieke Scholars The Rieke Leadership Award was established in 1988 by President William O. Rieke to reaffirm the university’s commitment to inclusiveness and diversity. Recipients of the award are men and women of any ethnic background who demonstrate their leadership in promoting racial and ethnic diversity at Pacific Lutheran University and beyond. Recipients of the award are expected to participate actively in curricular and co-curricular activities in a multi-ethnic context. Each Rieke Scholar will work with Pacific Lutheran University’s Diversity Center. There is an expected time commitment of three hours per week for the academic year. Through involvement in the Diversity Center, Scholars will enrich the fabric of university life while increasing their own leadership skill.