Academic Specialist Lauren Munoz named Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Coordinator for the Center for Integrative Studies
November 8, 2023 - Patti McDonald
Michigan State University Academic Specialist Lauren Munoz was recently named as the diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging coordinator for the Center for Integrative Studies at Michigan State University.
Munoz has been advising students as an academic specialist within CIS since 2018 and has served as chair of the department’s DEIB committee.
“It is great to be recognized for the DEI work I have been doing within the center,” Munoz said. “I am looking forward to working closely with the college’s DEI strategic plan and ensuring that our students are being treated equally and that they have representation.”
Munoz said she wants the university as a whole to be aware of how diverse the Center for Integrative Studies is, including the programs that are offered within the department.
“IDS and GLIS are some of the most diverse majors that students can choose within the College of Social Science,” Munoz said. “Because our students are all doing something incredibly unique, it sort of goes beyond an identity and these majors can literally cater to anyone and it is great that the center can showcase how equitable our programs are. Our center has a lot to offer students by having this personal and equitable perspective.”
With Munoz’s recent appointment, she will now be involved with assisting the College of Social Science with their DEI strategic plan.
“Since working with students as an advisor, I can now take what I have learned and share that with the college and help incorporate some of my ideas into the college’s strategic plan,” Munoz said. “It is great that CIS can now be at the table in those discussions.”
Munoz said she is passionate about helping students succeed while making them feel comfortable within an inclusive environment.
“Our students come to us at different phases of their lives,” Munoz said. “That is why it is important for us to have this forward-thinking lens because our students are all so unique. It is important that we try to find ways to make things work for our students, so they feel comfortable and successful during their time here.”
The Center for Integrative Studies Director Brandy Ellison said having Munoz in the DEIB coordinator role will be valuable for student success.
“Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role,” Ellison said. “But most importantly, she brings a passion for the work that will ensure our students are represented well and have a strong advocate on their side.”