Illinois State University’s Dr. Dakesa Piña has been named the inaugural winner of the Higher Education Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Award from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE).
Piña, who serves as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the College of Education, was honored at the annual NADOHE conference in Baltimore, Maryland, this April.
The NADOHE awards recognize and honor individuals and/or institutions for exemplary achievements and contributions to lead higher education towards inclusive excellence and institutional transformation through the study of diversity by means of research, leadership, or service. New to the ceremony this year is Piña’s leadership award, presented to an individual whose important work and exceptional contributions advance understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusive excellence in higher education.
“Dr. Piña has carved new paths for Illinois State and for every member of the Redbird community,” said the University’s Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Doris Houston.
Piña became the first college-level equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) officer at Illinois State in January of 2021, when she came to the College of Education. In her role, she represents the college on the President’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council. She spearheaded the development of the EDI is You (EDI ISU) theme for the University and helped to make restorative practices training and workshops available for campus and community leaders.
“Dr. Pina does more than go ‘above and beyond,’” said Dean of the College of Education Francis Godwyll. “She works to improve the very foundations of higher education.”
