The Center for Diversity and Inclusion

Holbrook Hankinson, PhD joined DePauw University's Justin and Darianne Christian Center for Diversity & Inclusion in July 2021 as its Executive Director. The Center's mission is to "support student success and facilitate cultural transitions through programming, advocacy, and community building." Prior to DePauw, he was Vice President and Chief Learning Officer for Delta Air Lines Global Services; Executive Vice President for Human Resources and Organization Development for Standard Management Corporation; and Senior Director of US Training, Learning, and Development for McDonald's Corporation. He has advised companies in the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia on OD-related engagements with a global consulting firm. He teaches two courses at DePauw: Designing Your Life, and Leading in Business and Beyond. He is the DePauw chapter advisor for the National Society of Leadership and Success Honor Society and is an associate of the Institute for Postindustrial Leadership at the University of Indianapolis and is a former president of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis.

Joseph Harris joined the Center for Diversity and Inclusion in November of 2019. He is originally from Maryland and graduated from Bowie State University with a Degree in History with a concentration in Pan-African Studies. He has presented or participated in numerous projects concerning diversity at all levels of education, including presenting on the praxis of teaching diverse literature at the National Council for Teachers of English (NTCE). He is currently a Ph.D. student at Michigan State University’s college of education with a specialization in urban education and literacy. In his spare time, he is a book reviewer for the website “Black Nerd Problems”.

Troyanna Jefferson joined DePauw University in May of 2021. She is a proud Indiana native and alumna of Goshen College, brings a rich background in Communication Across Cultures and Race, Class, & Ethnic Relations to her work. Currently, as a Coordinator for the CDI, Troyanna organizes student-centered programs and works with students to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. She seamlessly integrates her expertise into the day-to-day operations, ensuring the CDI's mission of promoting student success, advocacy, belonging, and retention is fulfilled. Troyanna's enduring passion for Young Adult Ministry remains a focal point guiding her contributions within the CDI.