As Michigan’s most diverse college campus, diversity and inclusion are integral to Wayne State's mission and vision and codified in its values and strategic focus. Today, and throughout its history, Wayne State has welcomed and supported a wide diversity of individuals, including first-generation and historically marginalized students.
That commitment was underscored 10 years ago with the founding of the Office of Inclusive Excellence (OIE). In the ensuing decade, OIE has worked to enhance Wayne State’s legacy of opening doors to people of all backgrounds, cultures, identities and ideologies.
For Interim Vice Provost of Inclusive Excellence Donyale Padgett, Ph.D., education has always been a pathway to social mobility and inclusive excellence.
“At Wayne State, our diversity is our strength — we recently celebrated the most diverse freshman class in the history of this university,” Padgett said. “Students choose this campus because it offers not only a rich urban research environment but also a culture of inclusion and opportunity. Through the work of the Office of Inclusive Excellence, we ensure that all students have the support they need to thrive, graduate and make the most of their unique talents. This commitment to connecting access, opportunity and excellence is at the heart of who we are and what we do.”
OIE was founded in 2014 as the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, along with the appointment of the university’s first associate provost for diversity and inclusion and chief diversity officer, the now-retired Marquita Chamblee. In the summer of 2024, the office was renamed the Office of Inclusive Excellence, better reflecting its mission.
The first major accomplishment of the office was creation of the Office of Multicultural Student Engagement (OMSE) in 2015. Led by senior director Stephanie Hawkes, Ph.D., OMSE has become a significant resource for students, celebrating Wayne State’s rich cultures through learning communities such as The Network and Rise, educational workshops, and events that foster academic and social support.
OIE’s influence reaches beyond student life through the DEI Council — a group composed of faculty, staff and students from departments, colleges and divisions across campus. Charged with advising university leadership and advancing antiracism initiatives, the council plays a crucial role in shaping Wayne State’s inclusive culture.
“This council ensures that every part of our university community has a voice and a stake in advancing DEI,” Padgett said. “It’s about making sure no one is left out of the conversation.”
OIE reached another milestone in 2018 by conducting Wayne State’s first campus climate survey, designed to gauge support for its diverse community, identify successful practices, uncover challenges, track progress and guide strategic improvements.
While programs and policies are important, Padgett believes the true power of OIE lies in its people. From faculty champions to student leaders, individuals across the campus have embraced the values of inclusivity and carried them forward in their daily interactions.
“At our recent anniversary event, ‘The Road to Inclusive Excellence,’ we came together to honor ambassadors who have been championing this work for years, even before the office was established,” Padgett said. “These are the individuals who live out the values of inclusive excellence every day, making our campus a better place for everyone.”
The event, held on Dec. 10 in the Student Center Ballroom, celebrated OIE's significant milestones and showcased programs that embody its mission. Community leaders and industry partners attended, highlighting the extensive impact of Wayne State's initiatives. The program featured breakout sessions, a panel discussion and an awards ceremony, where Jay VanDyke from the School of Social Work and Norvale Duerson from the Law School were honored as the first-ever recipients of the Dr. Marquita Chamblee Scholarship. Additionally, Impact Awards and Champion Awards were presented to industry leaders for their contributions to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion.
As OIE enters its second decade, plans are underway to prioritize accessibility, launch mentorship programs and deepen research opportunities.
Laurie M. Lauzon Clabo, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering an environment that supports all students.
“We have the most diverse campus community in the state of Michigan, and it is imperative that every student feels a sense of belonging on our campus in order to support their success,” said Provost Clabo. “We welcome all students and believe that every one of them has a unique and important voice to contribute to our community. Today we celebrate the students, faculty, staff and community partners who live out our mission every day.”