Dear Harvard College Students,

It is with mixed emotions that I announce I’ve accepted a position as Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of the Center for Diversity & Inclusion at Washington University in St. Louis. This new position will allow me to continue the work I’ve loved so much here at Harvard College while expanding my professional experience and level of responsibility. My last day at Harvard College will be Oct. 20.

I have appreciated the opportunity Harvard College has given me to work on the issues about which I’m most passionate--namely student engagement, social justice, and sense of belonging. I am especially grateful to all of you for challenging, supporting, and inspiring me all these years. I’ve been inspired by the dedication of the faculty, staff, and students to create a sense of community and belonging here. We have come a long way in the last five years, even as we acknowledge that we have much left to do.

The upcoming year is one that promises to be very exciting. The Office of Student Life welcomes a new Dean of Students; The Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and BGLTQ Student Life will be temporarily housed at 7 Linden Street while renovations are made to Gray’s Basement; the Office of BGLTQ Student Life welcomes a new Assistant Director, Program Coordinator, and Interim Director; and a national search will soon be underway for the BGLTQ Student Life Director. I’m sorry I won’t be around to experience all this.

I am confident that under Dean Khurana’s and Dean O’Dair’s leadership, the work of diversity and inclusion will continue to be central to the mission of Harvard College. I will miss this community very much and I know that you will all work together with the rest of the EDI team to make this place one in which all members feel they can thrive. If there’s anything I can do to continue to support you, I will only be a phone call or email away.

Warmly,
Emelyn dela Peña
Assistant Dean of Student Life for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion