Dr. John N. Singer Named Associate Dean For Diversity And Inclusion

The College of Education and Human Development appointed Dr. John N. Singer as associate dean for diversity and inclusion.

Singer currently serves as an associate professor of sport management in the Department of Health and Kinesiology.

“My concern and interest for diversity and inclusion is rooted in the understanding that we all are different,” Singer said. “We all have different lived experiences, with some similarities, but we have to work collectively to solve problems in the College of Education and Human Development through our differences.”

He teaches diversity in sport classes and primarily researches diversity and social justice issues, with a particular focus on black male athletes in college sport. His passion for inclusion is also very personal.

“As a black male who was born and raised in the U.S., I come from a social group and a community of people who have a long history of struggle and resistance against forces of oppression and subjugation, so that certainly plays a pivotal role in my passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion work.”

While Singer will focus on faculty climate, his work will also address issues that affect students, staff and other important stakeholders of the college. He said he will spend the first semester examining the college’s current state.

“I will spend a lot of time listening and learning in the initial months before I start drawing any conclusions about what needs to change or improve.”

Singer said he appreciates that the college already has diversity and inclusion infrastructure through the Office of Organization Development and Diversity Initiatives. He is eager to aid in their mission of continuous climate improvement.

“I am very excited about the possibilities of what we can be as a college going forward.”

Singer will begin in the position in Spring 2019. Learn more about Dr. John Singer.