Augustana expands Ashley Allen’s role to executive director of inclusion and intercultural experiences

Ashley Allen will take on an expanded role as executive director of inclusion and intercultural experiences for Augustana College’s newly restructured Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Allen, who came to Augustana in 2016, will advocate for and develop mentoring, advising and cultural programming tailored to Augustana’s diverse student body. 

Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Dr. Gauri A. Pitale said Allen will provide strategic leadership to Augustana’s Office of International Student and Scholar Services and the Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity (OSID). Allen has been an integral member of the Augustana community, serving in various roles dedicated to advancing student success.

“Her exceptional ability to foster collaborative relationships across campus, demonstrated during her tenure as the assistant director and then director of OSID, positions her well for this expanded role,” said Dr. Pitale. “In her new capacity as executive director, Ashley will extend her leadership to include vital support for our international student population, further enhancing the inclusive and supportive environment at Augustana.

“From her success in leading signature cultural events, such as Shades of Beauty and Diversity Week, to her day-to-day work connecting students with the resources they need, we are thrilled to have Ashley continue her work in uniting and serving our campus.”

Allen’s expanded role includes supporting and facilitating the successful transition and integration of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color), LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning), and international students into the Augustana community. She will supervise the college’s immigration specialist, the assistant director and LGBTQ+ coordinator, and other staff serving these students.

Allen has a bachelor's degree in journalism and African American studies from the University of Iowa, and a master's degree in public administration from Upper Iowa University. A Davenport native, she started her career as an admissions counselor at Augustana, recruiting students from the Chicagoland area.

“I look forward to offering my leadership to build on the incredible work already in place while developing new initiatives that foster a sense of belonging and create pathways to success for students,” said Allen. “Collaboration will be key, and I am eager to continue building partnerships across campus and within the community to ensure our diverse students have the resources and support they need to thrive."

Allen established the annual Cuts and Convos Barbershop Event to create a space for brotherhood, connection and conversation for men of color. She has also led and collaborated with partners on campus-wide events, including the annual Martin Luther King Jr. event, “An Evening with Yusef Salaam” in 2020, and the national dance troupe Step Afrika! to celebrate community, culture and Black History Month in 2023.