The Way Forward

As one of Iona’s longest-tenured Arts & Science faculty members, Susan Toliver, Ph.D., CFLE, has spent 30 years sharing her knowledge, experience and wisdom while gaining a profound understanding of the Iona community. This summer, when President Carey, Ph.D., established the position of adviser to the president on Race, Inclusion and Diversity, he looked to Toliver. With her extensive research in multiculturalism and race and the deep respect she has earned from students, colleagues and College leadership, Toliver could bring a necessary perspective and expertise to the role. Though Toliver officially “retired” in August 2020, she has taken the position of adviser to the president on Race, Inclusion and Diversity and continues to serve and guide Iona.

Toliver came to the College in 1989 as an assistant professor of Sociology. Over the next 30 years, she taught sociology and served as chair of the department; served as coordinator of, and taught classes in, the Women’s Studies Program; coordinated and taught Peace & Justice Studies, and held the position of associate dean of the School of Arts & Science.

Why is this role important now?
The need has been there for a long time, but the recent events in our communities and in the nation have caused us to focus on the broad sweeping nature of racism in our society.

Why is now the right time to explore race, inclusion and diversity?
Iona is on the right trajectory. President Carey is committed to diversity, inclusion and equality throughout the College. We have a diverse student body, but there is still much work to be done in regard to diversity and inclusion among the faculty, administration and staff.

We also need to bring more ethnic diversity to our curriculum. Our students have to be prepared for a global work and life experience. We prepare them for success in that environment by providing them with diverse perspectives.

Why are you the right person for this position?
As an African American woman, I’ve been the target of racism; I’m very aware of racial inequity and inequality. Throughout my career, I’ve always looked for opportunities to work toward diversity and inclusion. I have done extensive research in multiculturalism and race, and I bring that and my 30+ years of experience at Iona to my role. I have also served on numerous professional organizations and committees, including the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights as a member of the Advisory Committee and the Connecticut Permanent Commission on the Status of Women.

What will your first task be?
The first thing we need to do is hire a chief diversity officer for the College. This is a milestone step for Iona, and I will be advising and assisting with that task. This position allows for focused attention on issues of race, inclusion and diversity across our institution. We hope to have that position filled by the end of 2020 or early 2021.

How are you feeling about this undertaking?
I’m very excited. This journey will be an opportunity for all of us to grow and for us to learn more about ourselves and the world.