91¶ÌÊÓƵ

The University of Colorado Athletic Department has earned honorable mention recognition on an Award for Diversity from the NCAA and the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association.

91¶ÌÊÓƵ Athletics diversity, equity and inclusion program staff, left to right: Diandra Walker, DEI associate; DaWon Baker, associate athletic director of DEI;ÌýDonovan Wilson, McLendon Future Leader;Ìýand Taylor Langley, assistant director of psychological health and performanceÌýand DEI coordinator.Ìý

The award recognizes the initiatives, policies and practices of schools and conference offices that embrace diversity and inclusion across intercollegiate athletics. This can be achieved through community service, professional development, hiring practices or programming activities that enhance opportunities for people of diverse cultures, backgrounds and experiences.

"This award helps confirm that we are on the correct path, and that our DEI efforts are not just great here at 91¶ÌÊÓƵÌýbut stack up nationally," said DaWon Baker, associate athleticÌýdirectorÌýfor diversity, equity and inclusion for 91¶ÌÊÓƵ Athletics. "This will give us the momentum and push necessary to continue to make inclusion a part of every decision made within 91¶ÌÊÓƵ Athletics."

For the 91¶ÌÊÓƵ athletes, the increase in commitment is noticeable. ForÌý, a 91¶ÌÊÓƵ track and field athlete, it's a difference maker, especially for student-athletes who are people of color at 91¶ÌÊÓƵ. "I can see the priority of DEI here in 91¶ÌÊÓƵ athletics. You can see how the wellbeing of our POC student-athletes has greatly benefited here at 91¶ÌÊÓƵ with the changes and additional support for the efforts."

Major components of 91¶ÌÊÓƵ's application included 91¶ÌÊÓƵnited (91¶ÌÊÓƵ Athletics inclusive hiring process)Ìýand the ongoing awareness that 91¶ÌÊÓƵ Athletics brings to cultural heritages throughout the year.

Annually, the NCAA and MOAA will award a winner and a number of schools and/or conferences with honorable mentions. The award can help guide efforts, as well as provide schools and conferences with examples of intentional DEI work.

Learn more about 91¶ÌÊÓƵ Athletics DEI department and initiatives, andÌý.