College of DuPage values the innovation, creativity and richness of our college community. We believe our strengths lie not only in the talents and skills each of us brings, but also in the unique perspectives born from our diverse backgrounds. We recognize the importance of fostering and embracing a culture of inclusion and we are dedicated to creating a space for learning that enriches the lives of our students, employees and the community. These efforts aim to unite us as One COD.
At COD, we are proud to offer a wide range of programs, resources and opportunities for students and employees. The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) website provides links to DEIB-related resources. This is one way we aim to foster a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, experiences and challenges. We believe a strong community is not one that never disagrees but one that is empowered with tools to work toward mutual understanding.
Through our collective hard work, open dialogue and dedication to best practices, we are intentional in creating a culture of care and belonging that not only represents the best of who we are as individuals, but also the essence of our college community.
College of DuPage Equity Statement
Student access and success in higher education continue to be impacted by the effects of systemic inequities.
College of DuPage believes in the right to a high-quality education in an equitable and inclusive environment.
Through intentional design, the College will ensure that each student receives the information, resources, and supports necessary to achieve their educational goals. Learn more about the Illinois Equity in Attainment Initiative.
At COD, we strive for excellence in creating an educational community where everyone belongs by following these definitions:
Diversity
Encompasses the multidimensional aspects of human identity, culture and experience.
Inclusion
A culture of belonging and empowerment where all people are welcomed, valued and celebrated for their contributions.
Equity
The removal of barriers to empower all to achieve their goals.
Belonging
Encompasses the feeling of being valued, accepted and connected to a group or organization.
Message from Chief Organizational Culture Officer, Dr. Nevien Shaabneh
Dr. Nevien Shaabneh
In order to facilitate meaningful connections and streamline the process of accessing
information, we created the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) website.
In pursuit of this goal, COD wants to enhance accessibility to resources and foster
a sense of community and belonging.
By empowering individuals with knowledge that fosters a deeper understanding of diverse
perspectives, experiences and challenges, we can foster an environment where each
student and employee is acknowledged and embraced for their unique contributions.
Support for Students
College of DuPage is committed to greater equity, diversity and inclusion of underrepresented populations in our campus community through the development of proactive, strategic, and sustained initiatives.
- Access and Accommodations
- Accessibility, Antiracism, and Inclusivity Resources
- InterCultural Student Initiatives
- COD Diversity Initiatives
- COD Library Diverse Images for Teaching
- COD Library Anti-Racism and Oppression
- Continuing Education: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
- Global Education on Campus
- Latino Student Initiatives
- LGBTQIA+ at COD
- Neurodivergent Resources and Support for Students with Disabilities
- Study Abroad
| Club | Advisor | |
|---|---|---|
| Asian Student Association | Naheed Rouf | hasann@cod.edu |
| ASL Club | Adam Wasilewski | wasilewskia54@cod.edu |
| Black Student Alliance | David Swope | swoped28@cod.edu |
| Casa de Amigos | Elizabeth Mares | marese@cod.edu |
| Feminist Alliance | Lori Klose | klosel@cod.edu |
| German Club | Miglena Nikolova | nikolovam@cod.edu |
| International Student Club | Gabi Carr | carrma@cod.edu |
| Japanese Culture Club | Shingo Satsutani | satsutan@cod.edu |
| Latinos Unidos | Elizabeth Gomez De La Casa | gomezdelacasae@cod.edu |
| Muslim Student Association | Sameena Parveen | parveens430@cod.edu |
| Seoul of COD (Korean Club) | Miran Lee | leem195@cod.edu |
|
Autismerica |
Elyse Pelzer |
neriel@cod.edu
|
| Pride Alliance | Lauren Chlebanowski | chlebanowskil@cod.edu |
| CIAO – Italian Club | Anna Serrano | serranoa902@cod.edu |
|
Promotion of Underrepresented Minorities in Academic STEM (PUMA Stem Club) |
Susan Fenwick
|
fenwicks@cod.edu whitise@cod.edu |
| Model United Nations | David Goldberg | goldberg@cod.edu |
| Committee | Contact | |
|---|---|---|
| Safe Zone | Michael Duggan | duggan@cod.edu |
| Global Education on Campus | Shamili Ajgaonkar | sandifor@cod.edu |
| Africa and African Diaspora | Robert Moorehead | mooreheadr@cod.edu |
|
Asia |
Naheed Rou Maria Ritzema |
|
| European Studies | Miglena Nikolova | nikolovam@cod.edu |
|
Latin American Studies |
Tim Arroyo |
arroyot@cod.edu
|
| Middle East |
Leslie Wolf |
|
| Native American Studies |
John Paris |
Respect Inclusion Support Equity (RISE) Team
The Respect Inclusion Support Equity (RISE) team is composed of diverse stakeholders representing various departments and roles across the college. Entrusted with the creation and implementation of the College's comprehensive equity plan, the RISE team ensures that equity and belonging efforts are integrated in all aspects of college life.Committed to the ethos of "Rising Together,” the team evaluates and enhances DEIB initiatives in order to foster an inclusive environment that supports the success of both students and employees. Through data analysis, program evaluation, and strategic planning, we work to address opportunity gaps, promote fair access to resources, and foster a culture of belonging. The RISE Team is proud to lead these efforts, collaborating with the entire College of DuPage community to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Contact Information
Nevien Shaabneh
Chief Organizational Culture Officer
Student Resource Center (SRC) 2137
Email: shaabnehn@cod.ed
(630) 942-2211