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K-State Today

June 10, 2022

National search announced for vice president for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging

Submitted by Office of the President

A search committee appointed by President Richard Linton has begun the national search for the vice president diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at Kansas State University. The university has engaged with the services of Parker Executive Search, an executive search firm, to support the search committee with the process.

In April, President Linton announced the creation of a vice president for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging position, or VPDEIB, elevating the former chief diversity and inclusion officer role. The VPDEIB is an executive leader who catalyzes, fosters and promotes a universitywide culture of inclusive excellence where individuals from all racial and ethnic identities, ages, nationalities, social and economic status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, religious, political, and ideological perspectives, veteran status, and physical and mental abilities are able to thrive and be engaged. The vice president provides strategic and programmatic leadership for diversity, equity and inclusion programs and initiatives that advance diversity and inclusion as a critical component of social, academic and intellectual life at K-State.

Key areas of responsibility include universitywide DEIB strategic planning and monitoring; reporting and analysis; university climate surveys and initiatives, policy review with a focus on removing structural barriers to access and success for all; university DEIB events and communications, intercultural learning initiatives, and institutional equity.

The vice president reports directly to the president and serves as the senior diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging advisor to the president and university leadership. They serve on the president's cabinet and President's Advisory Council and chair the President's Commission on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging; the President's Commission on the Status of Women; and the President's Committee on Religious, Spiritual and Nonreligious Diversity.

The search is being assisted by Parker Executive Search consultants Erin Raines, senior principal, and Porsha Williams, vice president. Shari Crittendon, general counsel, and Thomas Lane, vice president for student life and dean of students, serve as the search committee co-chairs.

Inquiries, nominations and applications will be treated confidentially. For full consideration, application materials must be received by Aug. 1. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should include a cover letter and curriculum vita. Application materials should be submitted using Parker Executive Search candidate portal.

Inquires, referrals, nominations and questions should be sent to Erin Raines at eraines@parkersearch.com or Porsha Williams at pwilliams@parkersearch.com or call 770-804-1996, ext. 117, or via Parker's nomination form.

The full position description, including required qualifications, may be found on the president's website.

Campus interviews will take place in mid-to-late September, with an anticipated appointment beginning by late fall.