Diversity and Inclusion Positions on the Rise

MSCM alumni hired for brand new position

KENNESAW, Ga. (Aug 20, 2019) — Equity and Inclusion positions are springing up all over the country in Higher Ed and large corporate environments. A quick look at Indeed.com will show over 3,500 results with similar titles. Kennesaw State University appointed a new chief diversity officer this summer and many institutions nearby are following suit, including Agnes Scott College, Georgia Gwinnett College, and the U.S. Department of Treasury. With job functions such as mediation, research, progressive leadership, policy review, Title IX materials, and discrimination prevention, it's no surprise that our students and alumni are taking the lead in securing those positions.

We are proud to announce that Mr. Willie Thomas, MSCM alumni Cohort 8, has accepted a new position for New Equity and Inclusion Position at Cleveland State Community College in Cleveland, Tennessee. The brand-new position according to Dr. Bill Seymore, Cleveland State Community College president, “is to provide leadership as we develop a more inclusive campus environment and strive to provide every student the best opportunity for success. Willie brings a great deal of talent and enthusiasm to the position along with a deep understanding of community colleges having served professionally within the TBR system for several years.”

Mr. Thomas stated, “This is an amazing campus. I’m excited to work directly with Dr. Seymour and about being a pioneer of something new… I’m not here to change opinions; I’m not here to change the world, but I believe that we can have practices that transform lives, and transforming lives can happen regardless of what background an individual comes from, regardless of what socio-economic status or ethnicity they are. We want them to know that when they come to Cleveland State, they realize they are in a learning environment that actually prepares them to be global citizens and world changers.” 
 
Before joining Cleveland State, Mr. Thomas served in a number of roles at Chattanooga State Community College, with the most recent being the director of student conduct. Prior to this role, he was assistant director of financial aid.