UM-Flint chief diversity officer honored with distinguished award, local recognition

David Luke, chief diversity officer at the University of Michigan-Flint, has been doubly honored for his exceptional contributions to diversity and inclusion in higher education and the local community.

The University of Michigan recently awarded Luke its prestigious Distinguished Diversity Leaders Award, recognizing his outstanding efforts in fostering an inclusive environment on campus. The award, established to highlight staff members who tirelessly work to create a welcoming and supportive working environment, comes with a $1,000 prize for professional development activities or training.

The Distinguished Diversity Leaders Award is made possible through a collaborative effort of the Office of the Provost, the Equity, Civil Rights, and Title IX Office, and University Human Resources. This award acknowledges the progress toward cultivating a more diverse and equitable academic community and aims to honor those who value diversity and acknowledge how it distinguishes the university.  

"At a time when diversity, equity, and inclusion work is coming under intense national scrutiny and sometimes unfair or misinformed criticism, it is a particular honor to receive these types of recognition in support of the work our campus community is engaged in," said Luke. "I am grateful to be a part of our institutional efforts to promote justice, and equity, and build a campus community where all are empowered to thrive." 

In addition to this accolade, Luke was also named among Genesee County's 40 Under 40 for 2024. This biannual program celebrates young professionals driving positive change across the region. This dual recognition underscores Luke's significant impact at UM-Flint and the broader Genesee County community.

Luke's role as the university's inaugural chief diversity officer involves overseeing critical initiatives, including implementing the universitywide Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategic Action Plan. He also manages the Intercultural Center, Office of Educational Opportunity Initiatives, and the Center for Gender & Sexuality.

Luke holds bachelor's degrees in sociology and accounting from Grand Valley State University and master's and doctoral degrees in sociology from the University of Kentucky. His research focuses on multiracial organizations, which directly informs his work in diversity and inclusion. Recently, he published a book titled "Affirmative Action and Black Student Success: The Pursuit of 'Critical Mass' at Historically White Universities," which explores the effectiveness of diversity initiatives in various political contexts.

On the national stage, Luke continues to make significant contributions. He has completed the Chief Diversity Officer Fellows Program at the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education. He serves on the National Advisory Council for the National Conference on Race and Ethnicity in American Higher Education. He is also the current vice president of the Society for the Study of Social Problems.

The Distinguished Diversity Leaders Award ceremony provides a platform to celebrate and share best practices in diversity leadership across the University of Michigan system. Luke's recognition will undoubtedly contribute to this ongoing dialogue and inspire further advancements in creating an inclusive campus community.

"These honors recognize Dr. Luke's achievements and highlight UM-Flint's commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment," said Christopher Giordano, vice chancellor for student affairs. "His leadership continues to shape inclusive policies and practices in higher education, solidifying his position as a rising star in diversity and inclusion."