New Associate Deans for Diversity and Inclusion appointed

LJMU has appointed six Associate Deans for Diversity and Inclusion (ADDI), representing each of the five faculties and professional services, to support the university in driving forward the diversity and inclusion agenda.

The post holders will work closely with the central Diversity and Inclusion Team in driving forward this agenda and to create and implement localised action plans.

The newly appointed staff are:

Andrew Ibi, Programme Leader, BA Fashion: Design & Communication - Faculty of Arts, Professional and Social Studies
Olatunde Durowoju, Programme Leader, Collaborative Programmes - Faculty of Business and Law
Denise Lee, Programme Leader, School of Civil Engineering and Built Environment - Faculty of Engineering and Technology
Zalihe Kamil-Thomas, Senior Lecturer, School of Nursing and Advanced Practice - Faculty of Health
Phil Bakstad, Student Inclusion Lead, Student Advice and Wellbeing Services - Professional Services
Komang Ralebitso Senior, Senior Lecturer, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences - Faculty of Science

Tina Purkis, Executive Director of Human Resources and Diversity & Inclusion Lead for LJMU, said: “Diversity and inclusion is more than just policies, data, or programmes, it is about respecting the unique needs, perspectives and potential of all our students and staff. The appointment of the Associate Deans is a significant step in our plan to become a more inclusive university and I am really looking forward to working with them. Their roles will work collaboratively across the university alongside the Diversity and Inclusion Team to drive culture change and to achieve positive and measurable change.”

Moni Akinsanya, Head of Diversity and Inclusion, added: “This proves a multi-level collaboration and commitment in all departments is required to achieve our diversity and inclusion agenda. Diverse and inclusive workplaces do not happen overnight, it requires earned trust and commitment from the organisation which involves everyone. I anticipate a collaborative relationship with the newly appointed Associate Deans for Diversity and Inclusion, and I look forward to reaching great heights with them.”

The Associate Deans for Diversity and Inclusion will formally take-up their roles in January 2023 (for a fixed term period until August 2024) and will undertake an introductory meeting with the Diversity and Inclusion Team this month.

Any member of staff who has thoughts, suggestions or queries about future diversity and inclusion plans for faculties and professional services can email the Diversity and Inclusion Team.