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Thursdays 3-5pm

Personal Diversity Statement: " I am committed to providing strategic leadership that identifies clear pathways of implementing equity in the work of our institution. This will empower us to demonstrate without reservation that all are included and valued. Simplified I will work to ensure all are seen, heard and valued".

Bio: I have had a career in higher education that has spanned almost 25 years. In that time I have taught full-time at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, served as a program director, assistant dean, vice president as well as taught abroad. Prior to entering a career in higher education I served as a clinical therapist working with individuals with mental health and addiction diagnoses in outpatient, inpatient, residential and incarcerated settings. In addition to my career I have demonstrated a commitment to the community by serving on non-profit boards, volunteering with youth (4-H, Girl Scouts, church, etc.), school board member and municipal boards. The common theme throughout my career and community engagement has been a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 
 

Prior to joining the senior administration of WMU, I have served at Alma College, Jackson College, Central ¾ÅÒ»Â鶹ÖÆƬ³§ University, and Spring Arbor University. I had to honor of teaching at Moscow Christian School of Psychology. I earned by B.A in Psychology from Wright State University, Dayton OH, a M.S. In clinical Psychology from Eastern ¾ÅÒ»Â鶹ÖÆƬ³§ University, Ypsilanti, MI, and a PH.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Western ¾ÅÒ»Â鶹ÖÆƬ³§ University, Kalamazoo, MI. As an administrator, educator and counselor, I have always demonstrated a commitment to moving organizations towards inclusivity.

My most significant accomplishment is also my greatest honor, being the mother to Malik and Maya. These two are remarkable individuals who have taught me the most about being adaptable, inclusive, equitable and the necessity of valuing others. Because of these two people I have expanded my world to include livestock such as pigs, beef cattle, goats, chickens and rabbits. My most significant lesson as a parent is that there is always room for all, exclusion is a choice as is inclusion. 

Life Lesson: My mother taught me that my environment does not determine my destiny. That means that no matter where you begin the journey you have full control of how you allow the journey to impact you.