Syracuse Sun

Carrie Murawski began her role as the inaugural DEIA director of learning and development for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) at Syracuse University a little over two months ago. She is already focused on expanding learning experiences to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) on campus.

“It was obvious that there is a true commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility practices at the University, and I wanted to be part of an institution that values that sort of investment into their community,” Murawski said. “I see DEIA as a lifelong commitment of learning and relearning and I knew that Syracuse University shares that principle.”

Murawski started her position on July 16 after serving as an assistant professor of communication studies at Roanoke College. There, she was also a faculty affiliate for the Center for Studying Race and co-coordinator of the Gender and Women’s Studies Program.

In her new role with ODI, Murawski provides leadership, collaborative decision-making, and oversight of professional development opportunities. She is coordinating the biennial DEIA Symposium, a new micro-credential program, and a train-the-trainers program. Additionally, she directs the Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s CORE Four curriculum, learning materials/resources, discussions, and workshops.

“We are so pleased to have Carrie join us in our work to make the University a place welcoming for all. In this inaugural position, she will help guide and shape DEIA learning and development into a new era,” said Tanya Williamson, assistant vice president for diversity and inclusion. “With her strategic experience and background, Carrie will help pave the way for the development of DEIA professional programs and sustained learning experiences for students, staff and faculty.”

In an interview about her new role at Syracuse University:

Why were you interested in this role at Syracuse?

“I applied for the director of DEIA learning and development role because I was, and still am, excited about the opportunity to lead inclusive initiatives and programs at Syracuse University! I see this institution as leading the way for inclusivity in higher education.”

What do you see looking forward regarding DEIA professional development for University community members?

“I’m looking forward to creating more long-term professional development infrastructure for the University with an office that prioritizes sustainable change to make the campus more inclusive and accessible for everyone. I’m enthusiastic about building on the CORE Four workshops... I’m also eager to think about how to create more professional development opportunities for staff and faculty members whose work is already rooted in DEIA.”

What are your plans regarding microcredentialing?

“The office’s microcredentialing program is one of my big undertakings this academic year! We’re thinking about not just what it means to be inclusive but how our DEIA microcredentialing program is uniquely Orange... Our office wants to offer microcredentialing that is free, accessible... With a blend of theory and practical application...”

Can you give any hints about what to expect for the 2025 symposium?

“The 2025 DEIA Symposium is... happening... We’re planning for fall of 2025... The University community can expect diverse topics... keynote speakers... poster presentations... discussion panels... focus on accessibility. We are going to offer more ways to participate…”

What have you enjoyed so far about the University?

“I’ve enjoyed meeting my colleagues across campus!... Campus is beautiful… I’ve started to explore local eateries on Marshall Street… programming… selfie with Otto…”

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