Inclusion, Diversity, & Equity At Shenandoah

Everyone here belongs, and we are committed to a broad umbrella of support across our campus.

2026-27 Colleges of Distinction | Equity & Inclusion

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.”

Isaac Blue

Assistant Coach, Men’s Basketball

In his role, Coach Blue works closely with student-athletes, coaches, and athletic staff to coordinate RED Team initiatives, strengthen student-athlete engagement, and build a culture centered around leadership, accountability, school pride, and community. He helps connect student-athletes with opportunities to become more involved across campus while encouraging them to represent Shenandoah Athletics at the highest level.

My role as the RED Team Coordinator is about bringing our student-athletes together and creating a stronger sense of connection, pride, and community throughout Shenandoah Athletics. I want our athletes to support one another, build relationships outside of their individual teams, and understand that we are all part of something bigger. I want them to know our differences, whatever they may be, are our strengths, not a weakness. We want to embrace those uncomfortable moments so that we can truly understand the true meanings of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The goal is to create an environment where our student-athletes feel connected, take pride in being a Hornet, and help build a culture that represents Shenandoah University the right way.”

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.

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