New DEI member Suzanne Mealer
On Oct. 7 the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team welcomed a new member, Suzanne Mealer. Mealer will be the new equity Compliance Officer for Title IX, and her office will be located on the lower level of Perry Campus center.
Mealer has held several roles within healthcare and community service throughout her career. Her main focus has been on improving the accommodations and inclusion for the underrepresented communities. Prior to Joining the DEI team at Doane University she worked with the Ponca tribe of Nebraska and contributed to the Mayor’s multicultural Advisory Committee, the Cultural Centers of Lincoln Collaboration and the Blue Heron Tiospaye. She is dedicated to supporting excluded communities.
The DEI team works to sustain a diverse and inclusive campus with a strong community within it. Mealer’s goal is to continue to build on the policies the DEI team has established, while making sure the campus remains a supportive and safe environment for everyone. She and the DEI team plan to focus on clear communication and education, showing that DEI benefits everyone and builds a stronger community.
“I will work to improve training programs so that faculty, staff, and students have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities under Title IX,” Mealer said.
She has been working with the team on better outreach to also help parents see that DEI creates a welcoming space for all students, ensuring equal opportunities and preparing them for success in a diverse world.
The DEI team acknowledges and honors Dr. Leah Cech for her years of leadership in equity compliance at Doane. Throughout October, Dr. Cech will continue offering training and technical support to Mealer to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.
The DEI team is poised to continue fostering a more inclusive, equitable campus. Through focused efforts on communication, education, and community-building, they aim to ensure that all students feel supported and prepared for success in an increasingly diverse world.
