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Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Mission 

The Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is committed to strengthening diversity, equity and inclusion across campus and creating pathways that advance the college’s diversity at all levels. The office provides leadership for the college’s initiatives to enhance the intercultural competence of all students and employees.

Vision 

Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion will be demonstrated by:
• A campus community that reflects the diversity in the world.
• Attentiveness to equitable practices.
• A learning environment that emphasizes diverse experiences and perspectives.
• A similar sense of belonging for all students and employees

Monica Smith

Welcome message from the VPDEI

The Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was established in March 2018 in response to increases in the number of enrolled students of color and international students at Augustana College. I am excited to join Augustana as the inaugural Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to support our progress toward achieving strategic goals. The college has already laid important groundwork to foster a fertile environment for inclusion and diversity. My goal is to build on that foundation to move us toward a more inclusive Augustana, one that continues to honor the Five Faith Commitments, particular the social justice tradition. 

Augustana is a community driven by purpose, respect and civic responsibility. It strives to create the best environment where every member of our community can achieve personal fulfillment and success. — Augustana College Community Principles

Augustana College recognizes that our success is dependent on how well we value and engage the rich diversity of students, employees, alumni and external constituents. To that end, we are committed to inclusive excellence, a strategic framework that encourages us actively examine and evaluate institutional policies and practices. This assessment will allow Augustana to set goals with measurable outcomes evidenced in our strategic plan. Our focus for the next few years is to expand opportunities for access, commit to professional development, and develop new ways of operating that will be transformative for the college and our community. 

Meet our team 

Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:

Monica M. Smith, MSW, DSW, Vice President, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Bettinna Diaz Guerrero, Executive Assistant to the VPDEI

Office for Student Inclusion and Diversity (OSID):

Ashley Allen, Director

Leticia Martinez, Administrative Assistant

Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS):

Xong Sony Yang, Director

Juanita Trevino-Perez, International Student Advisor 

Contact us

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:
Founders Hall 101
vpdiversity@augustana.edu
309-794-7594

Student Inclusion and Diversity:
Gerber Center 418
inclusion@augustana.edu
309-794-8270

International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS):
Gerber Center 402 ("Gävle 4")
oisss@augustana.edu
309-794-8220

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