• Provide leadership and direction for the continuous assessment and improvement of university-wide efforts to create and sustain a more diverse and inclusive community of learners;
• Work collaboratively with other university units to build a capacity to recognize and value difference;
• Encourage and support positive interactions between and among diverse populations maximizing the benefits of a multicultural and inclusive community perspective;
• Advise the Senior Leadership Team about policies, programs, opportunities and ideas to build upon and enhance inclusivity at JMU.

Meet Us:

Mr. Art Dean, M.Ed.
Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Mr. Dean works with staff and students providing support and assistance as well as forging relationships with organizations and corporations outside of the university.  He directly oversees and supports the Diversity Enhancement Awards Program, Intergroup Dialogue Task Force, Annual Diversity Conference, the Innovative Diversity Efforts Award (IDEA) and the Office of Equal Opportunity. He also serves within local community organizations as well as the executive board of the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) and was instrumental in initiating the Virginia Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (VADOHE) chapter. Contact: dean1at@jmu.edu or 540-568-4506.