In a press release Wednesday, Lawrence University announced the appointment of Dr. Kenny Emmanuel Yarbrough, a “national higher education diversity, equity and inclusion advocate and leader,” as Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
For the past four years, Yarbrough has served in progressive roles at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater – most recently, as the Associate Vice President of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Support Programs. He will begin his new role at Lawrence in February.
The press release said Yarbrough will guide institutional culture, initiatives, and programs and a university-wide narrative.
Yarbrough brings over 20 years of experience to this role including a broad and deep portfolio in creating organization-wide, inclusive strategies and support programs to benefit our campus, student experience, and greater community.
“Dr. Yarbrough’s expertise in leveraging collaborative strategies and leadership in national advocacy will advance our work ahead in the areas of enhancing student programming,” Lawrence University President Laurie A. Carter said in a statement. “His appointment comes at an opportune time for Lawrence University – at the intersection of our strategic investments and a student-focused strategic plan.”
Yarbrough will lead the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and work collaboratively across campus with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community to enhance diversity initiatives and build on the momentum of Lawrence University’s strategic investments and momentum in the areas of DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism).
“I am elated to join the renowned institution, Lawrence University, in the role of vice president for diversity, equity, and Inclusion; and excited to join an institution that is seriously committed to this work for the students which the University serves as well as its employees and the greater community,” Yarbrough said in a statement. “I am grateful to Lawrence University’s President Laurie Carter and the Board of Trustees for entrusting me to lead this work in this capacity. The Light of Lawrence continues to shine, and I am grateful to be a reflector of that Light.”