Inclusion, Diversity, & Equity At Shenandoah
Everyone here belongs, and we are committed to a broad umbrella of support across our campus.
Diversity Officers At Shenandoah University
At Shenandoah, diversity is not just the job of one person or one department. Instead, inclusion, diversity, and equity are woven throughout the university’s structure and overseen by multiple individuals.
Akemi Takayama
Assistant Provost for Inclusion and Belonging
Akemi Takayama’s position in academic affairs is dedicated to fostering student and faculty success through collaboration, mentorship, and transformative learning experiences. She is committed to creating opportunities that have a lasting impact across Shenandoah’s diverse colleges, programs, and departments. Her work emphasizes the recruitment and support of students, the professional growth of faculty and staff, and the cultivation of an environment where all members of the university can thrive. As a professor of violin and an active performer, she brings a unique perspective that bridges artistry, scholarship, and community, inspiring students to connect their studies with a broader sense of purpose and belonging.
This is a deeply meaningful role, and while I am excited about the opportunity, I also recognize the responsibility it carries. As an orchestral musician for over 20 years, I’ve learned that true harmony comes from listening, adapting, and working together. Growing up in Japan, where teamwork is a part of everyday life, I carry that spirit with me into this new role.”
Dahlia Ashford
Assistant Dean of Students for Inclusion, Diversity, & Leadership
Dahlia Ashford provides leadership in the areas of student conduct, The Mosaic Center for Diversity, and the [Not Just] Women’s Center. She is responsible for implementing diversity initiatives that enhance retention and persistence through to graduation, as well as life skills development for underrepresented students.
My goals are to develop relationships within the Shenandoah community that will prove beneficial to our students. I plan to increase the retention efforts for our underrepresented populations. Our students need us more than ever, and I hope that Shenandoah University proves to be a place where students can flourish and become productive global citizens.”
DeShon Foxx
Assistant Vice President and Athletic Director
Foxx has a leadership role with the department’s RED (racial equity and diversity) team. DeShon is responsible for athletic educational programming and leading collaborative efforts across campus. He provides resources for underrepresented students in order to encourage their holistic development and the acquisition of life skills.
I look forward to collaborating with everyone on campus in an effort to further the success of the students at Shenandoah University as well as being a part of the continuing holistic development of the community.”
What Does Inclusion Mean to Us?
Inclusion is the advancement and presence of an environment where diverse individuals and groups can fully belong and participate.
What Does Diversity Mean to Us?
Diversity is the unique identity and lived experience of individuals and groups in our community, and how we prioritize and represent that.
What Does Equity Mean to Us?
Equity is the presence of targeted and comprehensive policies, practices, and resources that promote access, full participation, and success of a diverse community at Shenandoah.
Inclusion, Diversity and Equity News
Series Introduces Shenandoah Students To Arab Culture Ahead Of Collaboration With Jordanian Partners
Intro to Arab culture series prepared first-year students for virtual exchange opportunity with Yarmouk University
