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When Kristin Williams, associate dean for Admissions and Student Affairs at the School of Dental Medicine, reflects on her journey at �Ǹ���� (CWRU), her commitment to fostering diversity is closely woven through the story. Growing up in the community of Shaker Heights, she was unaware that diversity could still be an issue. However, when she arrived at CWRU for undergrad in the mid-1980s, Williams was shocked by the lack of diversity and unwelcoming atmosphere. 

“I experienced things I thought only happened on television,” said Williams. “I didn’t think they happened anymore—until they happened to me.” 

After leaving for John Carroll to finish her undergraduate degree, Williams returned to CWRU for dental school—where her experience was much more positive. Surrounded by a strong community of Black and Latine faculty and students—and an active Student National Dental Association chapter—she felt a sense of belonging.

When she began working at the School of Dental Medicine in 2001, Williams noticed years would pass with no Black students and few Latine students—many of whom didn't feel comfortable self-identifying. When the position of director of diversity opened up in the dental school, Williams jumped at the chance, determined to improve the environment for minorities at the school. 

Inspired by her own experiences and her father's—an alum who faced much racial adversity in the 1960s—she is dedicated to being a voice for change and ensuring that future students feel welcome and supported, regardless of their background.

As Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) encompasses a broad spectrum of how we define diversity, the university offers numerous programs—from single-afternoon events to more in-depth opportunities—to deepen the knowledge of our campus community. 

“There are so many opportunities to grow. Take a class, read a book or participate in the Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’s Sustained Dialogues,” Williams shared. “Engage in something that allows you to learn about perspectives different from your own.”