Appointment of Executive Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Now that the search has concluded, it is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Laura Odom as the new Executive Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Laura has a Bachelor of Science in Management and minor in Human Resource Management from Purdue University. For over 22 years, she has worked within the Purdue University system in the Offices of Human Resources and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Her roles have consisted of the following: Business Services Trainee, Employment Recruiter, Lead HR Business Partner, Assistant/Associate Director of Human Resources for Purdue Calumet, Assistant Director of Institutional Equity and Training at Purdue North Central, and Associate Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Purdue Northwest.

Her experiences include: providing guidance on conflict management strategies, advising senior and unit leaders on a variety of employee matters, designing and implementing comprehensive professional development programs, interpreting University policies, conducting investigations and writing reports in connection with harassment and discrimination complaints, mediating informal complaints, enforcing compliance with pertinent federal and state laws, and serving as the Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Officer and Title IX Coordinator.

Laura begins her new position today and she will be available at both campuses. Please join me in congratulating Laura on this new role.

Thomas L. Keon, Chancellor, Purdue University Northwest