JMU names associate VP for diversity, equity and inclusion

James Madison University announced Tuesday that Brent Lewis became its inaugural associate vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) on Sept. 1.

Lewis was most recently the chief diversity officer and director of identity, culture and inclusion with Randolph College in Lynchburg. He will work in JMU’s Division of Student Affairs and lead the Office of Disability Services; Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression; and the Center for Multicultural Student services.

“Dr. Lewis received unanimous support from our search committee and I see him as an incredible partner with me in shaping the future of the student experience at James Madison University,” Tim Miller, JMU vice president for student affairs, said in a statement. 

Lewis earned a doctorate in leadership studies from North Carolina A&T State University, where he wrote his dissertation on the social and cultural experience of gay and lesbian students attending a historically Black college or university. He held student affairs positions with Randolph College, Fayetteville State University and North Carolina Central University and has also taught undergraduate- and graduate-level courses. 

“I am passionate about DEI work and creating engagement opportunities for our campus to grow, learn, develop and create an equity-minded approach to student learning that is infused to every aspect of the student experience,” Lewis said in a statement.

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