Bleuzette Marshall Named UC Chief Diversity Officer

University of Cincinnati President Santa J. Ono has appointed Bleuzette Marshall as UC’s Chief Diversity Officer, effectively immediately.  Marshall, who holds three degrees from UC, including a PhD in educational studies, will serve on the President’s Cabinet and the President’s Executive Committee. 

“Since assuming the role of Interim Chief Diversity Officer in January 2013, Dr. Marshall has worked tirelessly to build enduring relationships across the institution as well as within the broader community,” Ono said. “In the process, she has developed an unmatched understanding of the university’s opportunities, issues and organizational dynamics.  Every step of the way, she has proven herself to be a gifted listener, a strategic thinker and, most importantly, a trusted partner.  I am confident that Dr. Marshall will take our diversity and inclusion efforts to the next level.”

A University of Cincinnati alumna, Marshall worked at UC and the UC Foundation for nearly 21 years, starting in Ethnic Programs and Services, at the African American Cultural and Resource Center, and in development at the UC Foundation. Since 2004, her work at the Foundation has taken her from Director of Development to Senior Director of Development.  Since the inception of the position of Chief Diversity Officer in 2007, she has assisted that office and the President’s Diversity Council.

“As a respected member of the UC administration with more than two decades of experience in advancement, alumni affairs, diversity and inclusion, facilitation, organizational development, project management, student affairs and teaching, Bleuzette has gained an awareness of UC culture that will be essential in moving our university forward as we continue to implement the Diversity Plan,” Ono said.

Ono noted that Marshall had led several successful fundraising initiatives benefiting the Darwin T. Turner Scholars Program, developed an affinity-based giving program for African American alumni, and served as a key organizer of the Onyx & Ruby Gala – a formal recognition ceremony honoring distinguished alumni of color. She also developed a system of accountability to enhance diversity and inclusiveness practices throughout the university, designed and co-chaired the university-wide diversity conference for three years, and conducted and analyzed a university-wide diversity assessment.

“I’m thrilled by the opportunity to serve my alma mater in such a meaningful way and am excited by the possibilities that lie ahead to better our best.  I look forward to continuing my work with university and community members to make UC the model of inclusive excellence,” Marshall said.  

On Jan. 20, Marshall will be honored with the

King Legacy Award

as the the Martin Luther King, Jr. Coalition and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center will host the 39th annual

King Legacy Awards Breakfas

t at the Freedom Center.