The Office of Institutional Advancement launched a divisional Diversity and Inclusion Initiative in 2018. The goal of the initiative is for OIA to be more intentional in our efforts to reflect UMBC’s commitment to inclusive excellence.
Greg Simmons, vice president of OIA, has shared:
Engaging deeply in work to improve diversity and inclusion can be challenging. But doing this work thoughtfully and sincerely is essential to creating a truly supportive, positive work environment for all. In fact, it is in those challenging moments—such as when we’re confronting stereotypes or unconscious bias—that opportunities for growth present themselves.
If you have any questions about the OIA Diversity and Inclusion Initiative, please reach out to Diversity and Inclusion Fellows Sara Lerma Jones (slj@umbc.edu) and Sarah Hansen (hansen.sarah@umbc.edu).
Professional development and training opportunities
Information about OIA trainings is available in the Office of Institutional myUMBC group. OIA members are also encouraged to attend relevant events offered around the university. These opportunities can be found on the myUMBC Diversity and Inclusion events page, which is updated throughout the year.
Sharing feedback
Sarah and Sara welcome feedback and suggestions from our OIA colleagues regarding the Diversity and Inclusion Initiative. If you prefer to remain anonymous, please feel free to use this Google Form to submit your comments. Alternatively, physical suggestion boxes are available in the 8th floor copy room and in the Alumni House kitchen.
Annual Reports
FY20 Annual Report: OIA Diversity and Inclusion Initiative
Diversity and Inclusion Work Group Members
Jill Blum, Senior Digital Designer
Catalina Sofia Dansberger-Duque, Communications Manager for the Humanities and Social Sciences
Sarah Hansen, Communications Manager for the Natural Sciences
Sara Lerma Jones, Associate Director of Alumni Engagement
Bruce Lyons, Associate Director for Foundation Relations
Stanyell Odom, Director of Alumni Engagement
Katharine Scrivener, Assistant Director of Alumni and Development Communications
Greg Simmons, Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Leslie Waters, Executive Administrative Assistant
Dusten Wolff, Digital Design Specialist
Tsai-Ann Yawching, Special Events Assistant