Carolyn Barber-Pierre has made a lasting impact on the diversity and inclusion landscape at Tulane University, earning recognition for her unwavering dedication and significant contributions. With her recent promotion to senior advisor to the provost, her role in cultivating an inclusive environment has become even more pivotal. Barber-Pierre has demonstrated unparalleled commitment through various initiatives and projects. Her tenure extends back to 1984 when she began as the director of special services, making her one of the longest-serving advocates for underrepresented populations on the campus.
Embracing Leadership Roles
From Director to Influential Advocate
Starting as the director of special services in 1984, Carolyn Barber-Pierre quickly recognized the need for more comprehensive support for minority students at Tulane University. Three years later, she founded the Office of Minority Affairs, which eventually evolved into the Office of Multicultural Affairs. This office laid the foundation for what is now known as the Carolyn Barber-Pierre Center for Intercultural Life, a testament to her nearly 40-year commitment to fostering an inclusive atmosphere on campus. Barber-Pierre’s work has continually aimed to uplift underrepresented students, providing them with the resources and support necessary to thrive both academically and personally.
Her new role as senior advisor to the provost includes collaborating with senior university leadership and various departments, like the Tulane Alumni Association and the Office of Study Abroad. Barber-Pierre’s efforts are now focused on enhancing academic and professional development support for students. One of her primary goals is establishing mentorship programs that connect current students with alumni, thereby creating a robust support network. She also aims to develop funding initiatives that can provide additional resources for students in need. In doing so, Barber-Pierre continues to ensure that diversity and inclusion remain at the forefront of Tulane’s academic and social environment.
Multicultural Engagement Efforts
Junior student Jancy Suber underscores Barber-Pierre’s influential role as a mentor and advocate, particularly for students of color. Suber highlights the significance of initiatives such as “Wednesdays with the O” and “Treat Yourself Thursdays,” which serve as community-building events that foster a supportive environment. These programs are part of Barber-Pierre’s broader strategy to create spaces where students can feel seen, heard, and valued. By offering consistent opportunities for engagement, Barber-Pierre has helped solidify a sense of belonging among the student body, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Barber-Pierre’s involvement with the Tulane History Project emphasizes the importance of documenting the university’s historical and racial evolution. Despite encountering resistance and ongoing challenges such as attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, she remains steadfast. Barber-Pierre acknowledges the strong institutional commitment to DEI values under President Fitts’ leadership, which has been crucial in advancing these initiatives. Through her work, Barber-Pierre continues to push for a more inclusive environment, recognizing the importance of understanding both commonalities and differences within the campus community.
Shaping Campus Culture
Establishing Diverse Initiatives
Throughout her tenure, Barber-Pierre has witnessed and contributed to significant progress in the understanding and implementation of diversity initiatives at Tulane. One notable advancement is the hiring of a chief diversity officer, a role designed explicitly to oversee and champion diversity efforts university-wide. This, coupled with the creation of a comprehensive diversity strategic plan, has provided a structured path forward for Tulane’s diversity initiatives. Barber-Pierre’s influence is also evident in the increased focus on celebrating diverse achievements, helping to create a campus culture that values and respects all identities.
The impact of having Black faculty in leadership roles, such as Barber-Pierre, cannot be overstated. Student Jancy Suber notes that Barber-Pierre’s presence as a Black female leader serves as a powerful example of leadership and success, significantly impacting the experiences of Black students. The Carolyn Barber-Pierre Center for Intercultural Life remains a critical resource for marginalized students, continuing Barber-Pierre’s mission of fostering an inclusive and supportive campus community. Her work has not only benefited current students but has also set a precedent for future generations, ensuring that Tulane University remains dedicated to diversity and inclusion.
Continuing the Legacy
Carolyn Barber-Pierre has significantly shaped the diversity and inclusion efforts at Tulane University, earning widespread recognition for her steadfast dedication and meaningful contributions. Recently promoted to senior advisor to the provost, her role in fostering an inclusive environment has gained even greater importance. Barber-Pierre’s unmatched commitment is evident through her numerous initiatives and projects aimed at promoting diversity. She has a long-standing history with the university, starting her career in 1984 as the director of special services. This makes her one of the campus’s longest-serving advocates for underrepresented groups. Over the years, she has been a cornerstone in advancing diversity and inclusion. Barber-Pierre’s work has not only positively impacted the university but has also set a standard for institutions nationwide. Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment continue to influence and inspire efforts for a more inclusive academic environment.
