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CU Athletics Adding Associate A.D. For Diversity, Equity And Inclusion

January 14, 2021 | General

BOULDER -- CU Boulder Athletic Director Rick George this week increased the athletic department's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion with the announcement of a new associate athletic director position that will oversee DEI efforts within Athletics. 

The role of associate athletic director for diversity, equity and inclusion is posted on the university's jobs website, with applications being accepted through Jan. 20

The new senior leader will report directly to George and be responsible for supporting, developing, managing and implementing diversity, equity and inclusion strategies that promote and foster an accessible, welcoming and affirming environment. 

Last year, George elevated the role of CU Athletics' diversity and inclusion officer to a member of his executive leadership team for the first time when Alexis Williams was hired as associate athletic director for external operations. 

"We feel like creating this new full-time position to lead DEI efforts within the department is the next step in ensuring that we continue to build a culture in which diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded throughout the recruitment, development and performance of both our staff and student-athletes," George said. 

Last summer, student-athletes and Athletics staff established a racial and social justice task force called CUnited to assess what the athletic department was doing well in relation to race and diversity, where there were gaps, and what actions could be taken to help eliminate bias and promote diversity within the department. CUnited is focused on taking action for racial and social equity by acting as catalysts for anti-racist education, reinforcing accountability and delivering a commitment toward buidling an anti-racist Buff community that ensures empowerment, equity and inclusion for all. CUnited includes student-athlete representatives from each of CU's 17 sport programs. The group's educational efforts have included bringing in speakers and holding a voter registration and education drive.

The athletic department, in partnership with the Student Recreation Center, annually hosts the Inclusive Sports Summit, which includes speakers, panels and presentations and aims to spark dialogue around a wide range of social issues. 

The new associate athletic director will build on and guide these efforts, as well as develop a diversity, equity and inclusion action plan to be incorporated into the department's strategic plan. The role will also partner with CU Boulder's Office of Diversity, Equity and Community Engagement (ODECE) to ensure alignment with campus efforts.

Teresa Hernandez and Lisa Flores, co-chairs of CU Boulder's IDEA Council, reiterated the significance of this move: "This is exactly the effort that CU needs. DEI work has to occur across campus, and we applaud Athletics for their leadership," said Hernandez. Flores agreed, noting that this new position will continue to signal to the campus and community that the university is committed to creating a culture of belonging for all.