Greetings from the Vice President
Greetings from the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging! I am excited and honored to serve in this inaugural role at Newberry College. I began my tenure on May 22, 2023, and I already feel like I am a part of the Wolves family. From as early as my interview, I have been impressed with the caliber of students, faculty and staff. I appreciate the warm welcome that has been extended to me during my transition to the College. I am looking forward to the many partnerships that I have developed, and will continue to develop, to make Newberry an even more diverse, equitable and inclusive institution where everyone who studies, works and visits feels like they belong. If I can be of support to you in your efforts, please reach out to me at Altheia.Richardson@newberry.edu. Go Wolves!
Altheia L. Richardson, Ph.D.
Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
Chief Diversity Officer

What are D.E.I.B.?
Diversity reflects the many ways in which individuals and communities are unique, contributing distinct and valuable experiences and perspectives to the mission and vision of an organization.
Equity involves fairness in the distribution of, and access to, opportunity for all individuals.
Inclusion reflects the manner in which individuals of diverse backgrounds are not only included, but valued as necessary voices within an organization.
Belonging reflects a feeling of connectedness and that one is important to or matters to others.
Overarching Goals
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COMMIT: Demonstrate an institutional commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion through strategic and budgetary priorities
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NURTURE: Create and nurture a campus climate that is committed to, and that celebrates, diversity, equity and inclusion
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SUPPORT: Recruit, retain and support the advancement of faculty, staff and administrators from underrepresented and/or marginalized groups
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LEARN: Provide all members of our campus with learning and professional development opportunities to increase cultural competencies and deepen understanding of their position in a diverse world
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SUSTAIN: Develop and sustain systems of accountability and collaboration for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives
The D.E.I.B. Campus Advisory Board
Nikki Brooks | Director of Human Resources
The Rev. David Coffman '97 | Campus Pastor
Dr. Krista Hughes | Director of the Muller Center
Carlton Kinard '16 | Muller Center Program Coordinator
Dr. John Lesaine '07 | Associate Dean for Student-Athlete Success
Dr. Jodie Peeler | Professor of Communications
Dr. Tracy Power | Associate Professor of History
Pamela Roberson '85 | African American Alumni Chapter
Ishita Singh | Student Body President
Dr. Lerone Wilder | Assistant Professor of Religion
Dr. Peggy Barnes Winder '86 | Professor of Physical Education

Dufford Diversity & Inclusion Week
Celebrated each October, Dufford Diversity & Inclusion Week began in 2013 with the vision and generosity of Dr. William “Bill” Dufford '49, who continues to sponsor the program. The annual series inspires appreciation for the multiplicities of humanity and brings people together on common ground. Dufford made history in 1969 as the school administrator responsible for integrating the Sumter County school system. As an educator, he has been a lifelong advocate for civil rights and quality education for all.