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Diversity Leadership Ambassador Program

Diversity Leadership Ambassador Program

About the Program

The Diversity Leadership Ambassador Program empowers students to leverage their personal narratives for impactful change both on and beyond the Ohio University campus. Through the program, ambassadors actively promote evolving perspectives and dismantling stereotypes by engaging in conversations on diversity related topics, fostering cultural awareness across society and everyday settings. 

Ambassadors fulfill their responsibilities by facilitating diverse discussions through presentations and open dialogues in classrooms, staff meetings and events throughout the academic year. These presentations are accessible to the Athens and University communities free of charge.

In addition to their presentations, DLAs play an active role in recruitment efforts, ensuring diverse representation across various programs and initiatives. They also provide one-on-one peer support, offering guidance and assistance to fellow students. Furthermore, DLAs receive professional development opportunities, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders and advocates for diversity and inclusion.

Ambassadors represent some of Ohio University’s most engaged students and become integral members of a tightly knit, diverse and dynamic group.

Mission and Values

We share our stories to encourage our audience to feel empowered by their personal experiences, leading to a more inclusive environment at Ohio University. We are passionate about this work and willingly share our time and enthusiasm.

  • Integrity

    We strive to tell our own personal truths through our experiences.

  • Inspiration

    We hope to motivate others in an effort to spread multiculturalism, equity and social justice.

  • Inclusivity

    We envision Ohio University to uphold the same standards of diversity that our program does.

How to Engage with a Diversity Leadership Ambassador

  • Request a Presentation

    We offer a range of interactive presentations on various topics around creating an inclusive campus and would love to share them with your group.

    View Presentation Topics

    Schedule a Presentation

  • Attend Our Workshops

    Join our monthly workshops on practical topics around creating an inclusive campus. These sessions are a great opportunity to expand your knowledge, meet new people and broaden your skills while sharing your own experiences.

  • One-on-One Sessions

    Schedule a one-on-one session with a Diversity Leadership Ambassador for personalized support and guidance on diversity and inclusion-related matters. Whether you’re navigating a specific situation or seeking to deepen your understanding, our ambassadors are here to offer an in-depth discussion, helping you explore ideas, address concerns, and develop strategies for fostering inclusivity.

    Schedule a meeting a week before your intended date.  

    Schedule 1:1 Session

  • Attend Our Events

    Throughout the year, we host various events and pop-ups. Come by, say hi, and engage with us. 

The Importance of Respect

Hear our student Diversity Leadership Ambassadors describe what respect means to them, and how we can create a respectful environment within the OHIO community.

Request a Presentation

Diversity Leadership Ambassadors (DLAs) are available to give presentations for classes, student group meetings, faculty and staff meetings, and to other groups. Our presentations are free and available to the Athens and University communities.

Please note: Presentation requests should be made at least two weeks prior to the desired presentation date. To request a presentation for your group, complete and submit the presentation request form.

Presentation Request Form

Presentations Offered

  • Who Am I?

    The "Who Am I?" presentation explores the concept of social identities and how they shape our perceptions and interactions in the world. This session delves into the various factors that influence our worldview, such as culture, identity, and personal experiences. By understanding these social lenses, participants will gain introductory insights into their own perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic approach to engaging with others.

  • Breaking Bias, Building Community

    "Breaking Bias, Building Community" focuses on identifying and addressing biases to create a more inclusive and connected community. This presentation encourages participants to recognize and challenge their preconceptions, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and respected. Through interactive discussions and activities, attendees will learn practical strategies for building a stronger, more unified community.

  • Intercultural Competence: Pathways to Understanding

    "Intercultural Competence: Pathways to Understanding" focuses on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate and thrive in diverse cultural settings. This presentation highlights the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication in fostering mutual respect and understanding. Participants will learn practical strategies for building intercultural competence, enabling them to engage more effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds and contribute to an inclusive environment.

Diversity Leadership Ambassadors

2024-2025 Cohort

Astrophysics and Mathematics
Avipsha Banerjee

Avipsha, hailing from Kolkata, India, is majoring in Astrophysics and Mathematics and is set to graduate in 2026. Avipsha loves stargazing and playing the guitar. As a DLA, she enjoys interacting with a diverse range of people, having meaningful conversations, and engaging in various activities to learn and help others learn. 

Nursing and Public Health
Christine Blay

Christine is a 4th year student from Franklin, OH. She is a nursing and public health double major with a certificate in Global Health. Christine is a Templeton Scholar, a member of OHIO Fellows, a Presidential Ambassador, Diversity Leadership Ambassador, Student Board Member for the Office of Experiential Learning, and a Student Representative for the Review and Standards Committee. Finally, she serves as the Student Advisor for ADJEl Dance Team and is a member of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Organization.

Environmental Biology
George Comstock

'm George, I'm majoring in Environmental Biology with a certification in Environmental studies of sustainability. I like to spend most of my free time outside or listening to music. I look forward to being a Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador and helping everyone feel safe and welcomed in the OU community, I have autism and I know what it feels like to not be included, I believe with my experience I can help others as an ambassador.

Sociology Pre-law
Raziya Croom

My name is Raziya Croom. I am from Cleveland, Ohio. I am a part of Class of 2027 studying Sociology Pre-law. One of my favorite hobbies is painting. I am involved in many campus organizations that deal with diversity and inclusion as I enjoy showing how important diversity is here on campus. 

Master's in Law, Justice, and Culture
Morgan Dorais

Hi! My name is Morgan Dorais, and I am from Denver, Colorado. I am currently working on my master's degree in law, justice, and culture and I am earning certificates in global health and conservation biology. I will graduate this May! I spend my free time playing pickle ball or hiking and I am very interested in music. I am so excited to be a DLA to help make the school a better and more welcoming place.

Master of Arts in Sociology
Sheyenne Grainger

Sheyenne Grainger is a dedicated student in the Master of Arts in Sociology program with a minor in African American Studies. She also holds certificates in Diversity Studies and Wealth & Poverty.

Her passions extend to historic preservation and creating social change, where she actively seeks leadership roles that inspire, inform, and uplift her peers. Now in her third term as a Diversity Leadership Ambassador, Sheyenne is excited to build impactful connections and collaborate on presentations with her fellow DLAs and staff.

Instructional Technology
Collins Ketere

Collins Ketere, hailing from a farming community in Kenya, is majoring in Instructional Technology and is set to graduate in 2030. He enjoys spending time with his cattle and brings a unique perspective to his role as a Diversity Leadership Ambassador. Collins loves interacting with different people, engaging with diverse views, and working towards the shared goal of fostering an inclusive community.

BIOS Pre-professional
Kyla Lindsay

Hi! My name is Kyla Lindsay and my major is BIOS Pre-professional. I'm from Hudson, Ohio and I'm a sophomore this year! I play rugby and LOVE to weightlift. I love to play Fortnite in my free time. If anyone has any questions or just want to yap for a little, feel free to reach out!!

Journalism
Nia Perez

Nia is a second-year undergraduate student at the Scripps School of Journalism. She is excited to be working toward broadening others' perspectives and bringing her vibrant energy and enthusiasm to make a difference. Nia loves trying new foods, exploring different cultures, and enjoys being involved in various activities like dancing and playing rugby.

Child and Family Studies
Tahnija Person

Tahnija is from Washington D.C. majoring in Child and Family Studies. She will be graduating in 2025. Tahnija has a passion for fashion, enjoying the creative process of putting outfits together. This hobby allows her to express her creativity and individuality.  

Strategic Leadership & Management and Entrepreneurship
Zoe Slaven

Zoe Slaven is double majoring in Strategic Leadership and Management and Entrepreneurship within the College of Business. She’s excited to help grow a more inclusive environment throughout campus and bring awareness to how important it is to embrace diversity. In her free time, she loves being one with nature and hiking in Hocking Hills. She is looking forward to all the connections she’ll make. Not only is she thrilled to be mentoring others on key concepts, she is excited for the new knowledge she can gain from all her student interactions.

Become a Diversity Leadership Ambassador

Learn more about the opportunities, eligibility, and program requirements.

View Application Process

Diversity Leadership Ambassador putting beads on a student at a multicultural fair

  • Questions?

    If you have questions about the Diversity Leadership Ambassador Program, please contact dla@ohio.edu.