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Our Diversity

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

Greetings from the Vice President

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

  • COMMIT: Demonstrate an institutional commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion through strategic and budgetary priorities

  • NURTURE: Create and nurture a campus climate that is committed to, and that celebrates, diversity, equity and inclusion

  • SUPPORT: Recruit, retain and support the advancement of faculty, staff and administrators from underrepresented and/or marginalized groups

  • 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

  • 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

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.

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