October 20, 2020
Dear Mayor, Dr. Yvonne M. Spicer:
It is with great enthusiasm that I submit my credentials for the position of Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officerfor the City of Framingham, Massachusetts.
I have worked in the field of higher education serving as a champion for creating an inclusive campus experience for students of diverse backgrounds, for the past 14 years. Working with aspiring young adults of marginalized backgrounds and encouraging them to shine is the hallmark of my career. I find great reward in facilitating personal and professional growth and development through inclusive systems and practices. In my current role at Lesley University, I work collaboratively with the President and other campus leaders to develop frameworks that will interconnect individual initiatives to each other and to a larger strategic plan, showing how together the community can achieve broader university diversity and inclusion goals. In addition, my responsibilities consists of developing wrap-around programs and services that support the retention and recruitment of students from marginalized backgrounds. Creating an inclusive campus environment requires buy-in from the entire community in order for students to feel a sense of belonging and pride for the campus they consider a second home. My ability to advocate for racial equality, antiracism, representation of diversity in its broad definition, inclusion, sense of belonging for all, willingness to educate and inspire my colleagues and compassion for the work I so passionately do in pursuit of inclusive excellence allows me to have an impact as a change maker in the spaces I lead and contribute to.
My professional accomplishments are filled with examples of my commitment to and success in working to increase diversity and promote inclusive community engagement. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to experience and analyze a number colleges, their mission and strategies around diversity. I have worked in a variety of different settings including: large, small, private, public, highly selective, and liberal arts colleges. As the Executive Director of the Urban Scholars Initiative (USI) at Lesley University I have had the pleasure and honor in developing and growing the hallmark program of diversity retention on-campus. This unique position has allowed me to use a cross-sectional and cross-cultural approach to create change in the sense of belonging for the students we serve on-campus. The experiences of USI students serves as a catalyst to examine university practices of inclusion across campus. As the Chair of the President's Diversity Advisory Committee and now the Interim Diversity Officer at Lesley University I have had the opportunity in a short time to lead the university in re-establishing its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and have supported the university President in working to infuse the practices of inclusive excellence into the very fabric and day to day practices across the university. The university is in the process of transformation as all campus leaders are owning the work of diversity as part of their responsibility as well. I have managed to do all of this with quality results, all while working to complete my doctoral degree and research on the lived experiences of Chief Diversity Officers at predominately white institutions in the northeast region of the United States, and while becoming a mom of two.
The opportunity to continue expanding my reach, influence, and ability to impact change widely on the city level is an appropriate and attractive next step in my career. It has always been a part of my vision and career goals to serve, assist and advise at a city-wide level assisting the mayor and other leaders in efforts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. With my roots deeply planted in personal and professional experiences around the matters of equity, social justice, and as a long-standing, deeply invested citizen of Massachusetts and past resident of Framingham, I bring a unique set of skills and knowledge to this position. I have the ability to think "outside of the box" and the courage to challenge the "status quo." Addressing a variety of small and large audiences is the mainstay of city professionals. I enjoy public speaking and group facilitation; it comes natural to me. My experiences provide me with a rich understanding of the value of being creative, resourceful, organized, communicating clearly, and investing in the appropriate systems and best practices required for successful outcomes.
I trust you will see via my CV I am an accomplished educational professional ready for the next step and challenge in my career. I thrive in a fast-paced environment and approach all tasks with diligence, a positive attitude, and a sense of humor. I am invested in personal and professional development and am committed to mentoring and supporting individuals as they work on their social self-development towards cultural competency. I am the results-oriented executive leader you seek to educate, inspire and lead the City of Framingham as the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer.
I am convinced I will be an asset and committed contributor of the necessary changes to improve the city's environment in Framingham towards inclusivity. I have so much more to share about my background, experiences, positionality, and passion for this opportunity in particular. I look forward to discussing my candidacy very soon.
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration. I may be reached by phone at xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx or by e-mail at xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.
Sincerely,
Maritsa Barros
118 Plymouth Drive Apt 2C Norwood, MA 02062
Cell Phone: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, Email: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPERIENCE
Interim Chief Diversity Officer, Lesley University, 2020
University Council, Chair, Lesley University, 2020- Present
University Council, Vice-Chair, Lesley University, 2019-2020
Associate Diversity Officer and Executive Director, Urban Scholars Initiative, Lesley University, 2017-2020
Director, Urban Scholars Initiative, Lesley University, 2013-2017
Assistant Director of Admissions, Framingham State University, 2011-2013
Assistant Director of Admissions, Multicultural Recruitment, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, 2008-2011
Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions, Northeastern University, 2006- 2008
EQUITY, INCLUSION, & JUSTICE INITIATIVES
Campus-Wide DEI Reset Training for Faculty & Staff. Race & Antiracism (Unconscious Bias). Creator, Trainer and Facilitator. September 2020
Campus-Wide DEI Reset Training for all students. Historical Legacy of Oppression and Cycle of Socialization. Creator, Trainer and Facilitator. September 2020
Community-Wide Virtual Forum, Conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion, 390 participants, June 2020
Lesley University. Diversity Council. Chair. 2019-2020
Lesley University. Diversity Council. Co-chair. 2018-2019
Exploring Self Identity & Our Socialization. First Year Experience Student Diversity Workshop Series. Coordinator and Content Creator. Lesley University. June 2020- Present.
Exploring Self Identity & Our Socialization. First Year Experience Student Diversity Workshop Series. Facilitator. Lesley University. 2018- 2019
Bias Education & Response Team Responder Monthly Training. Lesley University. Content Creator and Coordinator 2018- Present
Undergraduate New Student Orientation. DEI + You Workshops on Systemic Oppression. Content Creator, Trainer and Facilitator. July 2020
Graduate New Student Orientation. DEI + You Workshop on Race Dialogues. Content Creator, Trainer and Facilitator. August 2020
Lesley University. Diversity Council. Courageous Conversations on Race. Founder, Content Creator and Facilitator. 2018 & 2019
Urban Scholars Initiative. Intensive Summer Transition Week. Program Creator, Trainer, Facilitator, Coordinator, Motivational Speaker. 2014-Present
Urban Scholars Initiative. Master Class Series. Coordinator and. 2013- Present.
Restorative Justice Facilitation and Implementation Workshops. Facilitator. Lesley University. 2019- Present.
New Student Diversity Symposium. Content Creator and Facilitator. Lesley University. 2018- Present.
Lesley University. Faces of Lesley Contributor. 2019
Lesley University. New Student Convocation Speaker. 2017-2018
Nicholas College. Institute for Women's Leadership & Men of Distinction, Women's Empowerment Event. Keynote Speaker. 2018
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. College Now, Share the Dream Banquet. Alumni Speaker. 2017
Lesley University. Co-Founder of Selase Williams Unity Gala. 2016- Present.
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Frederick Douglass Unity House, Alumni Dinner. Alumni Speaker. 2016
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Leadership Recognition Banquet, Pillar of the Community, Alumni Speaker. 2016
Lesley University. C3/Connecting Communities of Color. Committee Member. 2014-2016
Framingham State University. Suitable Solutions Fashion Show. Fashion Show Coordinator and Host, 2013, 2015
EDUCATION
Northeastern University, Boston, MA
Doctor of Education (EdD) Expected Date of Graduation: September 2020
Specialization: Organizational Leadership
Research: Lived Experiences of Chief Diversity Officers at predominately white institutions in the northeast region of the U.S.
Northeastern University, Boston, MA
College Student Development and Counseling (M.S.) Date of Graduation: June 2007
Practicum Experience: Advisor to Northeastern University Cape Verdean Student Association (300hrs)
Research includes a case study on the lack of success in recruiting and retaining Multicultural students.
University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, N. Dartmouth, MA
Bachelor's Degree: Psychology Date of Graduation: May 2005
Minor: African & African American Studies
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Lesley University, Cambridge. MA August 2020 - Present
Interim Chief Diversity Officer
Inclusive Excellence Vision & Planning
Works with President to craft six-month DEI goals for each cabinet member
Implements Inclusive Excellence Framework to guide strategic diversity planning.
Provides the leadership and vision to develop, implement and assess Lesley's Inclusive Excellence strategy, including progress with diversity engagement and intercultural learning.
Manages team of one professional staff and two graduate assistants.
Identifies and advances evidence-based priority diversity goals for each fiscal year.
Serves as a member of the President's Cabinet
Campus Partnerships on Diversity Initiatives
Partners with President and Chief Marketing Officer to keep communications about all DEI matters timely and proactive
Partners with Chief Academic Officer and Provost, Dean of Students, Human Resources, Academic Deans, faculty and mid-level Directors to develop and provide customized professional development opportunities that deepen awareness on issues tied to social identity and that build intercultural competence.
Partners with Legal Counsel, Human Resources, Provost and Interim Equal Opportunity and Title IX Coordinator to make the systems of complaints in the university responsive and effective and complete all outstanding matters quickly
Administers and supports new goals for Lesley University Diversity Council as aligns with the University DEI goals.
Supports Deans and Program Directors with data collection, assessment and action planning on school level initiatives and projects within Graduate School of Education, Graduate School of Arts & Social Sciences, College of Liberal Arts & Science, and Lesley Art & Design.
Supports the Dean of Students and Director of Student Activities to develop Diversity training for students college-wide
Partners with Human Resources to hire Director of Multicultural Affairs and Student Inclusion and Equal Opportunity & Title IX Coordinator
Supports planning, coordination, facilitation and/or collaboration with student events and programs through Multicultural Affairs & Student Inclusion office.
Hires Graduate Assistants to support the office of DEI in the areas of: institutional diversity projects, LGBTQIA+, and health education & prevention
Supports and advises the work of CommonLYNX. Staff Training, Internship Advisor, Retreat Chaperone, expanded program to offer Courageous Conversations for student, to be led by students
Bias Response and Social Justice Education Programs
Oversees establishment, coordination of, and training for the Bias Education & Response Team consisting of 16 faculty and staff members.
Oversees establishment, coordination and training within Diversity Practitioner Program for 12 faculty and staff members charged with leading social justice education workshops.
Supports the conversion of Restorative Justice Certificate program in preparation of virtual delivery
Partners with Interim Title IX Coordinator as consultant on regulations and guidelines related to diversity, inclusion, and nondiscrimination in higher education, including Title IX, Title VI, Title VII, Clery Act, ADEA, ADA, and Section 504
Advocacy
Serves as an advocate across Lesley on diversity, equity and inclusion matters for all students, family, employee and alumni stakeholders.
Serves as an advocate to center the experience and voice of BIPOC students across Lesley
Lesley University, Cambridge. MA June 2017 - July 2020
Associate Diversity Officer and Executive Director of the Urban Scholars Initiative (USI)
Chair of President's Diversity Advisory Committee
Built on the existing perspectives on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the University to inform the Campaign for Inclusive Excellence.
Determined and agreed upon position title and led committee on articulating the priorities and goals for the new Vice President Justice, Equity, and Transformation.
Led the committee in delineating the desired expertise, capabilities and qualities of the Vice President Equity, Inclusion, and Justice.
Advised the Vice Chairs on the optimal representation of the DEI search committee.
Accomplished the above goals within four weeks in order to sunset the committee's charge by turning over its recommendations and work to the President, Board, Cabinet, Deans, DEI, LUDC and the search committee.
Associate Diversity Officer
Served as a centralized resource to assist program directors and coordinators in creating collaborative and complementary solutions and while ensuring that they understand their contribution to the larger university strategy for success
Managed strategies for effective recruitment, retention, professional development and training that contributed to innovative outcomes for staff, faculty, and students as they engage, teach, and study in a culturally diverse environment.
Assisted in identifying broad educational initiatives to address ways of creating a diverse, inclusive and welcoming environment for all students studying at Lesley.
Served on committees related to diversity and inclusion, at the discretion of the CDO, and will provide management, direction, advice and/or implementation of university-wide programs designed to recruit, retain, and support diverse pools of undergraduates.
Identified the origins of gaps in services, outcomes, and graduation rates through data-supported evidence, and sought out solutions with consideration of existing programs and other new initiatives which may have been needed
Collaboratively examined areas of intersectionality that would affect climate or retention (race, gender identity, first generation, ability, class, etc.)
Maintained ongoing communications with undergraduates regarding diversity education events, and initiatives designed for specific groups
Established excellent relationships with those in the Provost's office, and others providing resources needed (data, financial aid, residence life services, admissions, law enforcement, Academic Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Art & Design and others), especially those managing existing diversity and inclusion programs across Lesley
Regularly communicated with the Lesley community about the importance of Inclusive Excellence, key initiatives, and progress in implementing key initiatives
Worked with the Director of Institutional Research to establish inclusive excellence benchmarks, and build an inclusive excellence management dashboard that reflected inclusive excellence data and assessment metrics.
Served as an advocate for the Lesley community on issues of inclusive excellence
Ensured the continued growth and influence of the Office Multicultural Affairs & Student Inclusion; supervised the Interim Coordinator of MASI Events.
Urban Scholars Initiative
Supervised and trained two Student Success Coaches of Urban Scholars Initiative
Developed and facilitated summer transition experiences and wrap-around support services for enrolling USI students
Coached all USI upperclassmen students enrolled at Lesley.
Organized monthly seminar sessions for the entire group to build life-long success skills
Served as liaison between Lesley University and USI partner organizations
Recruited and transitioned new community partners
Together with the Admissions Director/team, developed strategic plan for student recruitment in greater Boston/Cambridge high-school travel territory
Served as a member of the Admissions Committee to review USI student applications on the bubble
Supported on-campus events as it pertains to the development and recruitment of USI students and partners.
Communicated regularly with Assistant Director of Admissions, USI Specialist.
Worked closely with the office of institutional research to develop assessment tool for the summer transition experience, the first year and wrap -around services of support.
Tracked student performance and engagement, disseminates data to key campus constituencies
Assessed activities and recommended changes to increase enrollment and academic success
Served as a liaison between the donors and the program objectives.
Offered feedback about USI to potential donors.
Supported the advancement team in their efforts to raise funds for USI
Assisted in the development of marketing materials for program recruitment and fundraising.
Assisted in the development of website and web content.
Coordinated logistics for event planning as needed
Lesley University, Cambridge, MA August 2013 - June 2017
Director of the Urban Scholars Initiative (USI)
Developed and facilitated USI program including summer transition experiences and wrap-around support services for enrolling USI students
Recruited first cohort for the USI program
Supervised and trained Assistant Director of Urban Scholars Initiative
Coached all USI students enrolled at Lesley throughout the first year and beyond.
Organized monthly seminar sessions for the entire group to build life-long success skills
Implemented and oversaw a Peer Mentor program
Served as liaison between Lesley University and USI partner organizations
Recruited and transitioned new community partners
Together with the Admissions Director/team, developed strategic plan for student recruitment in greater Boston/Cambridge high-school travel territory
Served as a member of the Admissions Committee to review USI student applications on the bubble
Supported on-campus events as it pertains to the development and recruitment of USI students and partners.
Communicated regularly with Assistant Director of Admissions, USI Specialist.
Worked closely with the office of institutional research to develop assessment tool for the summer transition experience, the first year and wrap -around services of support.
Tracked student performance and engagement, disseminates data to key campus constituencies
Assessed activities and recommend changes to increase enrollment and academic success
Served as a liaison between the donors and the program objectives.
Offered feedback about USI to potential donors.
Supported the advancement team in their efforts to raise funds for USI
Assisted in the development of marketing materials for program recruitment and fundraising.
Assisted in the development of website and web content.
Coordinated logistics for event planning as needed
Framingham State University, Framingham, MA July 2011-August 2013
Assistant Director of Admission, Diversity Outreach and Recruitment,
Assisted with the recruitment and selection of prospective freshmen and transfer applicants for Framingham State University with specific emphasis on multicultural student recruitment, early college awareness, and college going advocacy. Weekend and evening work, a valid driver's license, and access to reliable transportation is required.
Developed divisional strategic plan for diversity outreach and recruitment, including oversight of scholarship for Boston Public School students.
Liaison with the Office of Multicultural Affairs, First-Year Programs, and Center for Academic Advising & Support to ensure first-year success of specially recruited populations.
Assisted with managing the Welcome Center, with specific oversight given to the campus visit operation (e.g., campus tours, information sessions, group visits, open houses, on-campus events targeted to high school/transfer students, etc.) to ensure a welcoming experience for all persons including those from diverse backgrounds (e.g., race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc.).
Managed the Student Admission Representative Program
Assisted with the coordination of high school and community college visits as well as college information programs for parents, students and counselors; travels to high schools, community colleges and college informational fairs and attends programs on-and-off- campus as required. Establishes and maintains relationships with community-based organizations committed to early college awareness, readiness, and access (e.g., Upward Bound).
Met with prospective students and communicates application procedures to students, parents, high school counselors, and community college advisors.
Served as member of the Admissions Committee and makes recommendations on admissibility to the University.
Conducted admissions information sessions (individual and large group formats).
Assisted with preparation of statistical data/reports appropriate to the Admissions Office.
Assisted with the evaluation of publications, programs, and overall recruitment strategies of the Admissions Office.
Served on special and/or standing committees of the University.
Assumed responsibility for special projects as assigned.
Strove to maintain and augment knowledge and skills in the admissions field through advanced study, professional activities or participation in conferences, seminars, workshops and similar professional gatherings.
Supervised other professional, classified and student employee personnel assigned to the Admissions Office (at the direction of the Director of Admissions).
Ensured that affirmative action, equal opportunity and diversity are integrally part of all actions and decisions within the scope of duties.
Served as an instructor for Freshmen Foundations Seminar courses.
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, MA September 2008-July 2011
Assistant Director of Admission, Multicultural Recruitment
Represented the College at various recruitment activities for the purpose of recruiting students to the College, i.e. college night programs, high school visits, mini high school fairs, and other related events.
Responsible for implementation and further development of MCLA's Multicultural Recruitment Program with the goal of increasing enrollment to the College. At the completion of the second enrollment cycle MCLA has experienced a four-seven percent increase in Multicultural recruitment.
Coordinated and executed four Multicultural Overnight and access programs during the academic year targeting major urban areas in the Northeast region.
Developed a Multicultural Admission Student Squad designed to gain the full support and participation of current students, specifically ALANA (African American, Latino (a), Asian, Native American) in the efforts of increasing diversity on campus. Also, enlist participation of the admission staff, faculty and administrative staff. 60 students served about 100 volunteer hours as a group for academic year 2009-2010.
Provided a flexible Saturday Visit Option to provide access to first-generation college students who participate in college access programs, i.e. Upward Bound, Year Up, Gear Up, etc.
Increased the population of Multicultural students by 47% within first the two years.
Served as the admissions liaison with the Learning Services Office by evaluating admission applications for students interested in the Individual Enrichment Summer Session.
Responsible for completing evaluations of first-year student applications and academic criteria and renders admission decisions in a timely fashion.
Served as admission contact and counselor responsible for evaluation of International students.
Responsible for the organization and scheduling of high school visits and all travel arrangements within designated travel territory, Boston and New York City.
Managed a $10,000 scholarship selection committee for a student from the Harlem Children's Zone.
Served on campus committees, i.e. Students Affairs Committee (sub-committee: High Impact Experiences) and Diversity Taskforce.
Served as a mentor to current students during the Individual Enrichment Summer Sessions and beyond.
Served as an Advisor to a number of ALANA student organizations. Supports students in the development and creation of new ALANA organizations.
Production Manager of the 2009 Black Student Union Fashion/Talent Show.
Member of the Northern Berkshire Coalition Board
Co-Chair of Diversity Taskforce at MCLA
Co-Chair of Margaret Hart Scholarship Committee
Public Speaking facilitator for Individual Enrichment Summer Session
Creative Director for publication photo shoots
Northeastern University, Boston, MA March 2006-August 2008
Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions
Displayed high-quality customer service to prospective students, parents and guidance counselors daily
Conducted interactive information sessions to groups of 10-200 visitors daily
Counseled prospective students and their families through the admissions process as well as corresponded with guidance counselors regarding processes, policies and information.
Evaluated applicants for admission into the University through file review and meetings
Launched and oversaw a program where 20-30 students were trained to return to their high schools to talk about their college experience
Coordinated Class Visit Program- granted double the amount of visits from previous year
Represented Northeastern at Boston area to college fairs and high school visits
Advocated successfully for students through the admissions process
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Freshmen Foundations Seminar Course. Framingham State University. Fall College Course. Instructor. 2012-2013.
Individual Enrichment Summer Sessions. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Summer College Course. Instructor. 2009-2010
AWARDS & CERTIFICATIONS
Restorative Justice Facilitator. Skidmore Project for Restorative Justice. Certified 2019.
Bringing in the Bystander Training. Prevention Innovators Research Center (PIRC). Certified 2018.
Lesley University Impact Award Recipient. 2018
Strategic Management Problem Solving Training. Lesley University. 2017.
Pillar of the Community: The Dean Donald C. Howard Student Leadership Award. UMass Dartmouth, 2005
Office of Student Activities All-Stars Leadership Award. UMass Dartmouth. 2005
Madison's Who's Who of Professionals 2007-2008
ADVISORY EXPERIENCE
Lesley University
USI Men's Affinity Group 2014 - 2016
USI Women's Affinity Group 2014 - 2016
Black Student Union 2015 - 2017
QUEEN (Women of Color Affinity Group) 2016 - 2018
USI Student Advisory Council 2015 - 2018
Framingham State University
Cape Verdean Student Association 2011 - 2013
Black Student Union 2012 - 2013
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
Cape Verdean Student Association 2010 - 2011
Multicultural Student Association 2009 - 2011
Nexxus Step Team 2009 - 2011
Northeastern University Boston, MA
Cape Verdean Student Association 2007 - 2008
COMPUTER & SOFTWARE
Cypher Worx, Office 365, Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point, Banner, School Dude, 25Live, Blackboard Learn, Oracle, Zoom, TEAMS, Social Media
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
Fluent in Kriolu of Cabo Verdean and English
Familiarity with Portuguese
MA Licensed Realtor, Triple 7 Real Estate
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