Diversity and Inclusion Committee
The Diversity & Inclusion Committee consists of five subcommittees that are committed to inclusive excellence while supporting the needs of diverse identities:
External Relations Subcommittee- Promote events and initiatives regarding DEI within DIA to external constituencies using official Fighting Illini social media platforms
- Initiate external communication and marketing campaigns in DIA that celebrate DEI milestones and acknowledgments that are recognized by the University, nationally and internationally
- Committed to attracting and supporting diverse audiences at Fighting Illini Athletic events
- Identifying and maintaining relationships with DIA donors interested in funding DEI-related initiatives
- Serve as the liaison between the DIA Diversity & Inclusion Committee and various campus units associated with reinforcing the mission of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
- Responsible for collaboration connected to social justice education, diversity training, and campus belonging resources
- Collaborate with the Student-Athlete Development, Wellness, & Retention subcommittee to identify opportunities for collaboration within the DIA, campus, and greater Urbana-Champaign communities
- Serve to establish and maintain an inclusive community to affirm the experiences and perspectives of underrepresented student-athletes and DIA staff
- Committed to highlighting the rights, promotion, and acceptance of underrepresented student-athlete groups while encouraging self-advocacy and empowerment
- Responsible for providing opportunities for education, training, and discussion that focus on promoting understanding and dismantling the structures that impact underrepresented student-athlete groups
- Plan and implement DEI-related programming that promotes the holistic development of underrepresented student-athlete groups by supporting their unique needs
- Enhance the underrepresented student-athlete experience in the areas of personal growth, leadership, career development, and community outreach and service
- Review and improve workforce development strategies designed to engage, connect, and retain underrepresented student-athletes, staff, coaches, and administrators by way of feedback processes, professional development, and opportunities for mentorship
- Honor individuals whose contributions, attitude, and behavior demonstrate their exceptional commitment to DEI within the DIA, campus, and Urbana-Champaign communities
- Manage the nomination and selection process for internal DEI awards and recognition using specific selection criteria
- Nominate DIA and individuals for external DEI-related awards and recognition that exist locally, regionally, nationally
Diversity and Inclusion Executive Board
Cassie Arner
arner@illinois.edu
Sara Burton
sarab4@illinois.edu
Dr. Stephon Fuqua, Ph.D.
sfuqua@illinois.edu
Dr. Brian Russell
brussui@illinois.edu
Dr. Breanna Shamaila, Ph.D (Chair)
bcrobin@illinois.edu
