Vice President for the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Alfreda Brown will say goodbye to Kent State at a farewell reception in April.

Appointed in 2009 as the inaugural vice president and chief diversity officer for DEI, Brown has spent eleven years shaping an environment that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion. 

“Under Dr. Brown’s leadership, DEI has emerged as a preeminent change agent, developing integral initiatives that champion diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Shana Lee, director of Diversity and Inclusion Leadership. 

Brown has led efforts that have resulted in monumental changes for the university, its students, staff and faculty. 

The opening of the LGBTQ Student Center, the reenactment of the University Diversity Action Council and the creation of the Center for Sexual and Relationship Violence Support Services are just some of Brown’s notable accomplishments.

Dedicating over a decade to Kent State, Brown worked closely with the president of the university to ensure that diversity is fostered and that graduates leave as an extension of inclusiveness. 

Brown took an incredibly personal approach in her work and inspired others to move past the presence of diversity and enact change. Her work brought a greater understanding, value and respect for the differences of individuals at Kent State, making the university a role model for others. 

Brown will make her final remarks at the farewell reception at 4:00 P.M. on April 20 in the Kent Student Center. 

Guests are asked to RSVP or submit regret by April 13. 

Molly Adams is a diversity reporter. Contact her at [email protected].