UMSL Announces Tanisha Stevens as First Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

University of Missouri-St. Louis Chancellor Kristin Sobolik announces Tanisha Stevens as the first vice chancellor for diversity, equity to lead the university’s strategic diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Stevens comes to the position with 17 years of experience at UMSL, most recently serving as interim director of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, a position she’s held since November, while continuing to hold the position of director of the Office of Academic Integrity, simultaneously.

“I am excited to continue to work with Dr. Stevens as we advance and expand on our support for creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment on campus and in our community,” Sobolik said. “Tanisha has a strong track record of effecting positive change and developing strategic initiatives that have improved lives at UMSL. She’s the right person to lead our efforts in growing the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, aligned with our goal of inclusive excellence and our mission of transforming lives.”

During her time in the interim position, Stevens coordinated the university’s first Virtual Gathering for Racial Unity, which nearly 200 people attended on June 18, organized the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Observance, and increased the MLK scholarship amount. Stevens intends to take that momentum into her new role, especially building upon the experiences of those who attended the Virtual Gathering.