Amoaba Gooden has been selected for the position of vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion, according to an email from President Todd Diacon sent Wednesday. 

Gooden is currently an associate professor and the chair of the Department of Pan-African studies and leads the university’s Anti-Racism Task Force. In June 2020, Gooden became the university’s interim vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion. 

“She is the right person at the right time to lead the division as our invaluable partner, advisor, advocate, convener and resource in achieving our vision of institutional equity, diversity and inclusion in the fullest sense,” Diacon wrote in the email. 

The university’s nationwide search to fill the role on a permanent basis began in February. Gooden was announced as the sole finalist for the position April 14 and delivered a public virtual presentation April 20. 

“The Kent State community has already experienced Dr. Gooden’s strong devotion to students, and I am confident her leadership and insight will enable her to achieve great success in her new role,” Diacon wrote. 

Gooden will begin this new role effective May 1.

Emma Andrus covers administration. Contact her at [email protected].