Organizing Shared Approaches to Equity Work

• In Event: Equitable Education Systems and Organizational Collaboration Toward Equity

Abstract

Based on a multiple-case study of eight institutions working to broaden responsibility for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work, this paper explores distinct ways of managing and structuring this important work in a more shared or distributed fashion. We identify four distinct models for how campuses have structured their DEI work to include more people. Two of these models expand on and broaden traditional ways of organizing the work through Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) positions and departments, while the other two represent unique ways of structuring the work more collectively. Building off the literature on organizational design and the organization of DEI work, we present alternatives for campus leaders to structure this important work in more collective and collaborative ways.

Authors

• Elizabeth M. Holcombe, University of Southern California

• Jude Paul Matias Dizon, California State University - Stanislaus

• Adrianna Kezar, University of Southern California