lisa r. abston

Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

[she/her]

Lisa R. Abston, Ph.D. is the inaugural Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Graduate College at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In this role, Dr. Abston is responsible for leading recruitment and retention efforts to diversify the graduate student body. She’s a member of the Graduate College Cabinet and the Graduate College Council. Also, she leads the Graduate Diversity Council which is responsible for reviewing policies and providing guidance to ensure access and inclusivity for all graduate students. Through collaborative efforts with graduate programs across campus, as well as external partners, Dr. Abston promotes equity and diversity through sustainable programming.

︎  lrabston@illinois.edu