UIC Office of Diversity Bids Farewell to Two Team Members
The UIC Office of Diversity, Equity, and Engagement is bidding farewell to two team members who have helped make the university a more inclusive and equitable campus.
JT Turner, director of the UIC Gender and Sexuality Center since March 2019, has accepted a new position at Princeton University as associate director of athletics for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Turner led the center’s launching of several initiatives, including allyship training, LGBTQ and TNGC therapy groups, and an LGBTQ student climate survey plan. Turner expanded affinity group spaces and advised multiple campus units and students on policies and practices impacting LGBTQ students, faculty, and staff.
Also departing is Michelle Manno, PhD, assistant vice chancellor for diversity. Manno has accepted a position at Northwestern University as assistant provost for diversity and inclusion.
Manno served as director of diversity initiatives and later as assistant vice chancellor between 2018 and 2022. Manno was a key leader who led several initiatives including the equity dashboard, the inclusive classroom, the equity advocates program, and the advancing racial equity planning initiative. She also played a key role in several grants designed to advance inclusive teaching, and in designing and conducting faculty search committee and anti-bias trainings.
Amalia Pallares, vice chancellor for diversity, equity, and engagement, said both leaders will be missed. “Undoubtedly JT and Michelle have provided transformative leadership for our campus. We wish them well in their future endeavors,” she said.