In the beginning of the 2023-24 academic year, Fordham University’s Chief Diversity Officer Rafael Zapata stepped down after five years in the role. While the search for his replacement continues, Kamille Dean Esq. has been appointed as Interim Chief Diversity Officer. Dean is also the Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Fordham School of Law as well as the Interim Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Before coming to Fordham, Dean worked at St. John’s University School of Law as the director of the Ronald H. Brown Center for Civil Rights and Director of Diversity and Inclusion and as a tenured Associate Professor of Law at Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
“I was initially brought to Fordham to serve as the inaugural Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at the Law School in the fall of 2020,” said Dean. “Through the Office of Student Affairs, I partnered with students, faculty, and staff to advance an anti-racism plan and further the Law School’s commitment to DEI.”
In her expanded role, Dean has been meeting with members of the community to plan future DEI programs. As her appointment will end in June 2024, Dean is focusing on working on the university’s strategic plan towards excellence in higher education.
“With sustainability in mind, I am collaborating with colleagues across the University to build a strong framework for the future of DEIB at Fordham,” said Dean.
Through her multiple roles, Dean is able to bring together a variety of resources across Fordham.
Dean began working at Fordham through the law school; however, she has expanded into working in the undergraduate programs. This provides her with a unique and comprehensive view of Fordham as a whole.
“I have a greater appreciation of how vast our institution is, in terms of academics, research, and community engagement. Fordham is a beacon of cutting-edge innovation in the midst of New York City,” said Dean. “Fordham’s global influence can be seen near and far.”
Dean has worked on various programs to foster a community between the undergraduate and law students.
“Synergies between the University’s schools and departments are achieved through my involvement with both undergraduate and law students through our pipeline programs such as IDEAL and the REAL,” she said.
Dean hopes to continue working at Fordham and keep up her work of expanding diverse and equitable initiatives.
“I will continue to advocate for inclusive access to opportunities for the greater good,” she said.
