Associate Dean of Diversity – Cokiesha Bailey Robinson
When choosing from careers in higher education, an associate dean of diversity is a unique opportunity to consider! An associate dean of diversity is someone who deeply cares about all students and advocates for students in various walks of life. This individual should reflect a biblical lens as they build up leaders, establish goals, and communicate with campus departments to see campus life thrive. Cokiesha Bailey Robinson, associate dean of diversity, equity and inclusion at Grace, knows that her role is vital and makes sure to pursue her students every day.
“My role is to help students navigate cultural differences, share perspectives of students of all backgrounds, make sure students feel that they belong, advocate for students of color, create programming for students with disabilities, and foster relationships with leaders to help propel the mission of biblical inclusion on campus,” shares Robinson.
Robinson loves to play the roles of Christian mentor, friend, and teacher. Her passions include seeing people discover the love of Jesus as they treat their neighbors with compassion.
“I view working in higher education as work for the next generation,” she shares. “This is a role that I hope outlives me. Diversity matters to God, and it matters to me, so I hope that what students learn from me is educational, inspirational, and foundational as they move forward to enjoy a full life.”
To be successful in this role, an associate dean of diversity should possess strong communication, leadership, and administrative skills. If you are considering this field, you should be collaborative and possess a strong sense of cultural intelligence and sensitivity.
“Of course the most important thing is a love for students and student life,” shares Robinson. “In a Christian school, I hope that your faith drives every single thing you do!”
A master’s in higher education degree will help you prepare educationally and socially to be marketable in any field and will help you lead with a faith-based lens to promote excellence, community, learning, serving, leadership, biblical justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“Learning never stops in this program nor in higher ed!” shares Robinson. “This program will help students develop curiosity and a thirst for perspectives that take them beyond their own context.”
If you have a desire to see every student find a place on campus, then this role could be a great fit for you!