17�Թ�

San Dimas, CALIF. – 17�Թ� welcomes Marcus Robinson as full-time Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

After an extensive and highly competitive search, the search committee consisting of staff, faculty, and students selected Marcus Robinson as the new Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Marcus Robinson is a diversity and inclusion consultant, pastor, educator, and mentor with over 15 years of experience in diversity management, program development, and pastoral leadership roles. Marcus has a passion to see racial harmony in Christian institutions and people from various cultures and backgrounds celebrate the unique and diverse ways that God has made them.

As the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DDEI) at 17�Թ�, Marcus will champion the importance and value of a diverse and inclusive environment and contribute to the development of effective strategy. He will actively engage students, faculty, and staff to further behaviors, attitudes, and policies that support equity and inclusion campus-wide that truly exemplifies the heart of Jesus. Additionally, Marcus will be a member of the university’s administrative council which oversees all university policies and major decisions.

“Marcus lives out the requisite qualities of a DDEI as a bridge builder and champion of diversity, equity and inclusion,” states President Angie Richey. “Holding both a voice and a vote, he will collaborate with the broader community to effectively carry out the University’s strategic vision. We look forward to supporting his efforts and partnering together to bring about further positive change for LPU in these remarkable times.”

Marcus will collaborate with University stakeholders to assess potential barriers and coordinate opportunities for learning and engagement on issues of cultural competency, gender differences, disability, and other topics designed to increase awareness and support of equity and inclusion values and maintaining compliance with applicable laws. He also desires to create a culture of celebration with opportunity for creativity, appreciation, and unity.

New Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Marcus Robinson with his wife, Kyung (Kay) Robinson, in the LPU courtyard.

Most importantly, Marcus models a vibrant and authentic Christian faith and worldview consistent with the University’s values. He has served as a pastor of several Chinese/Taiwanese and multiethnic churches and is in the process of becoming an ordained Foursquare minister.

Vice President of Student Development, George Bostanic affirms, “Marcus has a heart and passion for seeing racial reconciliation and harmony in Christian institutions. I can’t think of a better person for this critical role for the university. Marcus brings incredible experience and perspective, a passion for serving students, and a Biblical framework that will take LPU to the next level.”

Carlos Ortiz, former ASG President at 17�Թ� says, “I am so thankful to have been involved in the search committee and process. I’m honored to have been able to add my voice.” He went on to say, “Welcome, Marcus, to the LPU family. We are cheering you on!”

In addition to his work as an educator and pastor, Marcus has worked professionally as an events producer and believes those skills provide another avenue to create community around the conversations about diversity and equity through lectures, art, and musical expressions. He is the founder of , a Foursquare church plant designed for creative leaders who use their gifts and talents for God’s glory. Marcus holds a Master of Science in Organizational Psychology and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Music Entrepreneurship from Azusa Pacific University.

Stepping into this new role Marcus says, “I am humbled and honored to serve 17�Թ� in this position and am excited to see God bring us together to move as one in Christ to impact the world.”