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M.S.Ed Erin Waddles
Diversity & Inclusion Professional
Professional Background
Erin Waddles, M.S.Ed, is a dedicated advocate for diversity, inclusion, and equity within higher education, deeply committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued and included. Currently, Erin serves as a Coordinator for Student Diversity & Inclusion at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). In her role, she is responsible for implementing initiatives that enhance the campus environment and ensure that diverse voices are heard and celebrated. She approaches her work with enthusiasm and a firm belief that an organizational commitment to diversity is essential for success in today's multicultural society.
Erin's professional journey is a testament to her passion for diversity and inclusion. She initially discovered her calling through her experiences as a college adviser. At the Washington University chapter of the College Advising Corps, she successfully supported over 250 students navigating the college-selection process, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures. Erin's focus on creating holistic experiences for individuals is rooted in her own journey as a dedicated student and professional determined to broaden and diversify worldviews.
Throughout her career, Erin has held numerous positions that underscore her commitment to diversity and inclusion in education. Her previous work included serving as an External Admissions Reader at Yale-NUS College, allowing her to evaluate and support the admissions process for prospective students with a keen eye for inclusivity. Additionally, she was a Graduate Coordinator for Intercultural Programs at the University of Pennsylvania, where she managed programs aimed at fostering intercultural understanding and collaboration. Each of these roles has equipped Erin with the skills necessary to effect meaningful change and development in the educational landscape.
Education and Achievements
Erin Waddles earned her Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed) in Higher Education from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education in May 2018. This advanced degree has provided her with the foundational expertise to address the complexities of higher education administration, particularly concerning equity and inclusion. Erin’s academic background also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis, where her interests in cultural engagement and community dynamics flourished.
Her educational journey has laid the groundwork for her immersive approach to diversity-related initiatives, which emphasize critical thinking and a comprehensive understanding of the experiences faced by underrepresented groups in educational settings.
Achievements
Erin's influence extends beyond her formal roles through her commitment to expanding the conversations surrounding equity and inclusion. She expresses her vision for a more equitable society through collaborations and discussions with friends and professional networks. Outside of her academic and professional commitments, Erin is also an avid music enthusiast, finding inspiration and healing through music that resonates with her. Her passion for storytelling and writing is another outlet through which she shares her experiences and insights, contributing to the narrative of diversity and inclusion in education.
In every endeavor, Erin Waddles embodies a spirit of advocacy, continually seeking to inspire others and effect positive change. Her work serves as a beacon for those who believe in the power of diversity, and she remains devoted to empowering the next generation of thinkers and leaders in higher education.
