New Division at Weber State for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
OGDEN, Utah – Weber State University has created a new division of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees has approved the appointment of Adrienne Andrews to serve as its first vice president.
This reorganization represents the most significant change to the university’s organizational structure in more than 28 years and advances the goal of “Equity, Diversity and Inclusion,” outlined in the university’s new strategic plan, Weber State Amplified, a 5-year plan for growth. The plan also affirms the university’s commitment to become an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution by increasing the percentage of students who identify as Hispanic or Latinx descent to 15% by 2025.
The new division of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion will coordinate strategies and operations focused on achieving these goals and will provide a strong foundation and a better allocation of key university resources. In addition to aligning programs that support students, the new division provides a central point of leadership for equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives related to faculty, staff, curriculum, human resources and community.
“When you look at what’s happening in business and industry today, creating the division of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Weber State is not only an appropriate step, but also a critical step to help bring people together to address the needs of our students, faculty and staff, as we work toward the goals outlined in our strategic plan,” said Kearston Cutrubus, chair of the WSU Board of Trustees.
The new division combines several existing programs, centers and offices that currently exist but were housed in two areas (Student Affairs and the President’s Office), including:
- Center for Diversity & Unity
- Center for Multicultural Excellence
- Diversity & Inclusive Programs
- LGBT Resource Center
- Office of Diversity – Chief Diversity Officer
Adrienne Andrews has served in a variety of roles advancing the issues of diversity at the university for 17 years, most recently serving as the Assistant Vice President of Diversity – Chief Diversity Officer.
“Adrienne is a trusted and respected leader on equity, diversity and inclusion issues within the state of Utah,” said President Brad Mortensen. “She knows Weber State and our community, and can step in from day one to provide leadership and alignment as we work toward the shared goals and vision outlined in our strategic plan. She has the full support of our trustees, the administration and myself, and we look forward to working alongside her as we move these efforts forward.”
Andrews recognizes the new division has important and difficult work to do in its efforts to make Weber State a more diverse, inclusive and equitable community, but that the five-year strategic plan provided a foundation for work and an impetus for change.
“I am honored to accept this new opportunity at Weber State, an institution that is walking its talk and putting students first,” Andrews said. “The leadership and support of and for students, faculty and staff at all levels is manifest in the work of equity, diversity and inclusion as we strive together for the success of all.”
A new position as director of Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution will also be created with the support of Ally Financial and will report to both the new vice president and to the President’s Office.
The creation of the new division is effective immediately to allow Weber State to move quickly to meet its goals.
Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
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Allison Barlow Hess, Public Relations director
801-626-7948 • ahess@weber.edu
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- Contact:
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Allison Barlow Hess, Public Relations director
801-626-7948 • ahess@weber.edu
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