Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The College of Fine Arts values diversity, equity and inclusion as integral to the mission and life of the college and as a cornerstone of arts education.
We appreciate and celebrate the diversity of human experience and recognize the unique power of the arts to give expression to those experiences. As such, we are conscious of our responsibility to cultivate an environment in which the voices of all communities may be heard and are embraced.
We understand that people come from different backgrounds, are privileged or disadvantaged in ways beyond their control and occupy different positions in society. We look to actively engage these differences in the commission of our roles as educators and artists, engendering empathy and empowering creativity in others through these efforts.
Arts Programming Initiative
We are committed to offering diversity, equity and inclusion events, programming and curriculum for TCU students, faculty and audiences across North Texas, including initiatives funded by the Programming Grants Supporting Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion.
Diversity Advocates
Advocates assist in cultivating an inclusive learning and work environment in TCU’s schools and colleges. They focus on hiring and promotion efforts, recruitment and retention of faculty, staff and students, and serve as a resource and consultant to the Dean, Associate Deans, chairs and directors on DEI issues.
- Gina Bombola (2021 – 2024)
- Mary Nangah (2020 – 2023)
Current Committee Members
James Rodriguez, Chair (2018- )
Yvonne Cao, Design (2021 – 2024)
Jay Ryu, FAME (2021 – 2024)
Chris Powell, Art (2021-2024)
Ayvaunn Pen, Theatre (2022 – )
Keith Saunders, Dance (2022 – )
Staff: Elizabeth Kirkendoll, Music (2021-2024)
Undergraduate: Mackenzie Song, Graphic Design (2022-2023)
Graduate: Justino Perez, Music (2022-2023)
Ex officio members:
Suki John, past chair (2017 – )
Mary Nangah, Art, Diversity Advocate (2020-2023)
Gina Bombola, Music, Diversity Advocate (2021 – 2024)
Mariana Gonzalez (2021 – ), (Gender Resources, Student Affairs)
Lori Diel (2020 – ), Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development
Since 2016, the Office of Diversity & Inclusion and the DEI Committee have made progress toward making TCU a more inclusive campus. The increase in learning and development opportunities and the initiative to implement the DEI essential competency in the core curriculum are a few of the initiatives that TCU is proud to have accomplished.
University Resources
The university has DEI resources for prospective students, current students and faculty/staff, and maintains an online reporting system for bias incidents.
The Art Galleries at TCU Resources
Reflecting on conversations about Black Lives Matter and the events of summer of 2020, Kim Nguyen MA ’21 worked with the Art Galleries at TCU to research and compile a resource list to share with TCU students, faculty and staff. This extensive list includes information about black artists, local black-owned businesses and support organizations, media and more. As the nature of this research is ongoing and collaborative, we welcome additional contributions. Please contact the Art Galleries at TCU (theartgalleries@tcu.edu) with any information you wish to share.