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EACE 2025 Board of Directors Elections

Director, Diversity & Inclusion Candidate

Rosa Santana
University Director of Career Development
Fairleigh Dickinson University

1. Describe your interest in serving on the EACE Board in this capacity.

I firmly advocate for building inclusive spaces where all voices are amplified and accounted for. An active diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) champion, I have successfully led initiatives that empower marginalized populations and push system transformation. My track record includes securing a $100,000 grant for services provided to underrepresented students, launching affinity groups for concept sharing and network opportunities, and developing DEI training that enhances professionals' cultural competence.

As a Director, Diversity and Inclusion at EACE, I would be in a position to scale initiatives more broadly for the members. I am eager to collaborate with EACE members to foster more inclusive opportunities, grow the current affinity groups' activity, and ensure that DEI is ever top of mind for leadership development, programming, and partnerships. I think representation does matter, and I am committed to constructing spaces where all feel noticed, heard, and enabled to succeed.

 

 

2. What skills and experiences do you possess that have prepared you to be successful in this role?

My professional experience in career and leadership development, along with my on-the-ground work in DEI programming, has positioned me for this role. I have successfully managed cross-functional teams, spearheaded strategic projects, and established partnerships that propel diversity forward.

Notably, I arranged and conducted various large-scale workshops with conferences on special topics and designed strategies for creating environments of heard voices. Additionally, I have developed and facilitated DEI training workshops that have had a positive impact on organizational culture, promoting engagement and retention of diverse professionals.

I have experience in policy advocacy, program development, and community relations all of which support EACE's commitment to diversity and inclusion. My ability to build positive relationships and engage in dynamic dialogue will help to propel positive change within the organization.

 

3. What ideas and/or goals do you have for this position?

As Director, Diversity and Inclusion, my key priorities would be to enhance engagement within EACE’s affinity groups, implement measurable DEI initiatives, and strengthen partnerships that advance equity in career services and recruitment.

I aim to:

  • Expand Affinity Group Impact: Involve more and increase EACE's affinity groups' visibility through interactive events, and leadership development initiatives, and invite groups to share their expertise, and resources on the Trending Blog.
  • Enhance DEI Training & Resources: Develop targeted training and toolkits that equip EACE members with strategies to foster inclusive environments.
  • Data-Driven DEI Strategy: Leverage mechanisms to track DEI progress across all EACE committees and identify areas for growth.
  • Strengthen Employer & Educator Collaboration: Bridge gaps between employers and career services to foster open dialogue and communications.

 

4. EACE History

Years of Membership: 7 years

EACE Service History: 

2024-2025 PR & Marketing Committee Co-Chair;

2024-2025 Chief Career Services Officer Affinity Group Co-Lead;

Presented at the EACE 2024 Conference, EACE 2021 Conference, and EACE 2019 Conference