Apr 04, 2017 08:08 AM EDT By Anne Collins, UniversityHerald Reporter

The University of Flordia has announced that they have selected Will Atkins as Executive Director of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs, effective immediately. The position supports and empowers underserved communities.

As new leader of the Division of Student Affairs, Atkins will be tasked to educate, empower and mobilize students, campus stakeholders and community partners towards creating an inclusive, affirming, and just campus community. Atkins would oversee the department of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs that include Black Affairs, Hispanic-Latino Affairs, Asian Pacific Islander American Affairs, Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Queer Affairs, and Intercultural Engagement.

The Division of Student Affairs brought four candidates to Gainesville for on-campus interviews during the search process. The finalists were reviewed by stakeholder feedback, strengths and weaknesses, and extensive reference checks with the candidates' current and former employers and faculty members.

UF was looking for an individual with strategic vision and leadership, strong communication skills, experience with advocacy, and a history of meaningful collaborations, among other attributes, The UF News reported.

After a thourgh national search from a robust and competitive appkicant and finalist pool, Dr. David Parrott, UF's vice president for Student Affairs said Atkins brings experience from several large universities. Atkins was the interim leader of MCDA for six months. The university will greatly benefit his leadership, compassion and commitment to excellence said Parrott.

During his time serving as interim Executive Director of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs and past roles at the University of Florida, Miami University, and University of Michigan, Atkins has a tested and proven track record of professinalism, leadership and relationship building skills. He co-lead the Black Student Affairs Task Force, launched an intercultural dialogue series, and organized the Town Hall with President Kent Fuchs.

Dr. Mary Kay Carodine, assistant vice president for Student Affairs said Atkins has a strong foundation in social justice education, serving underrepresented students and working on campus climate initiatives and assessment. His excellent relationships and collaborations is sure to make a substantial and lasting impact on campus.

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