Fast Facts

• Job title: Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• What I do at IST: I lead and support the college’s strategic diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.
• Before IST: I was an associate professor and director of school counseling at the University of Detroit Mercy, the former director of scholarships and special programs for Penn State, and the former director of diversity enhancement programs for the Smeal College of Business.
• Hometown: The Bronx, New York
• Favorite thing about Penn State: The Berkey Creamery. Death by Chocolate is the best flavor!
• Fun fact: I love almost anything crafty and artsy—cooking, making jewelry, sewing, dance, music, and theatre. I also hold three degrees from Penn State!

Meet Jocelyn

Why did you choose to work at IST?

I love the energy and enthusiasm that flows throughout the college, and I want to build on that to assist underrepresented minority and women students successfully matriculate a STEM program.

What do you do in your role?

I lead and support the college’s strategic diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. This includes the recruitment and retention of diverse undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff; programming focused on diversity and inclusion; supporting faculty with research initiatives focused on the inclusion of diversity; and supporting resources for undergraduate and graduate students who are underrepresented minorities (ethnicity, LGBTQ+, disability), women, and first-generation college students.

What motivates you in your work?

I have a strong interest and passion for exposing students of color and women to STEM education. I want to help underrepresented students pursue academic and career development opportunities that I was fortunate to have, but many of my peers didn’t have growing up and current students struggle to gain access to.

What is the best part of your job?

Experiencing the creative flow of the Office of Inclusion and Diversity Engagement (OIDE) team. Also, on my first day in this role, it seemed as if I had been a part of the college for years, which was so exciting.

What is your advice for students?

Take advantage of everything IST and Penn State have to offer. Never be afraid to ask for academic, career, or personal assistance.

What has been your most memorable Penn State moment?

Running out of Rec Hall and leaping into my mother and father’s arms after summer commencement with my bachelor’s degree in my hands.

Last updated November 2022