Diversity and Inclusivity Council

The Diversity Committee was created to serve as an advisory council for WAA, its executive board and university administrators. Committee members serve as ambassadors and resources on multicultural and diversity issues concerning alumni, students, faculty and staff. The council's mission is to promote active participation in programs that support diverse constituencies and represent the views and interests of diverse alumni. We look to create a more welcoming campus climate for all students by assisting with small group recruitment and retention programs.

The committee assisted WAA in implementing its plan to encourage alumni club support of students of color through scholarships and mentoring. Members were also called upon to assist in developing the job description for the new Director of Diversity & U. S. Chapters position and assisted in the selection process.

Ongoing work of the Diversity Committee includes assisting WAA in evaluating the impact of current programs, working to improve campus climate, and identifying potential volunteers and leaders. The council has plans to initiate an alumni of color summit around campus climate and diversity issues, and is currently providing consultation on the creation of the first ever alumni of color survey.

Diversity Committee members represent African-American alumni, American Indian alumni; Hispanic/Latino alumni; Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender alumni; Cabinet 99 members; representatives from the WAA board of directors and designees from UW-Madison's administration.