Leading Diversity Officers in Turbulent Times

"First and foremost, I was drawn to the role at NADOHE because as someone who's been in the diversity, equity, inclusion, social justice, multiculturalism-whatever you want to call it, the terms have shifted over the last 30 years-I've been in it, and I know firsthand how complex and how demanding this work is. Having led diversity, equity and inclusion efforts on campuses, I understand that it's both a strategic role and that it requires emotional labor on the part of the people who are doing it."

"When I look back over my 30-year career doing this work, there were certainly moments when I wished for even stronger national infrastructure, when I wished for some clear guidance from some kind of umbrella organization, when I had wished that there was more visibility and solidarity for people across the country and internationally who are doing this work."

Emelyn dela Peña has become president and CEO of the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education at a critical juncture when diversity, equity, and inclusion offices face significant institutional pressure. Many campuses have eliminated or reduced these offices and laid off diversity officers in response to state and federal policy changes. Dela Peña brings three decades of diversity work experience, most recently as vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion at Loyola Marymount University. She accepted the role specifically to support diversity professionals during this challenging period, recognizing both the strategic importance and emotional demands of this work. She seeks to strengthen national infrastructure and provide guidance and solidarity for diversity officers across the country.

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