UK President Names Interim VP for Institutional Diversity

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 19, 2015) — Terry Allen, associate vice president for institutional equity at the University of Kentucky, has been appointed interim vice president for institutional diversity effective July 1.  UK President Eli Capilouto made the announcement at UK's Board of Trustees meeting Friday, June 19. Allen will take over for Judy (J.J.) Jackson who is retiring after seven years as vice president for institutional diversity.

Capilouto said when Jackson announced in February her decision to retire, he launched a series of conversations with around 100 people — students, faculty, staff, local community leaders and local and state policymakers — to learn about the work that must continue for maintaining an inclusive environment at UK.

"I have been inspired by the commitment of our campus to the mission we have to expand and sustain our efforts," Capilouto said. "Terry brings to this role a deep and long-standing commitment to our university and our work to foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed and believes their current and future success is nurtured."

"I am appreciative of the opportunity to serve the university in this position," Allen said. "Diversity and inclusion do not just occur. It takes consistent effort and ongoing commitment, particularly to facilitate achievement of student success. The university must embrace diversity strategic objectives, assess continuous progress, and welcome those who contribute." 

Allen has led the UK Office of Institutional Equity and Equal Opportunity since 2003 working extensively with all campus colleges, UK HealthCare other UK administrative units, and federal and state agencies regarding equal opportunity, equity, access and diversity in academic programs, employment, services and activities.  Most recently, he worked with the provost and the co-chairs of the “Diversity and Inclusivity” area of the next Strategic Plan. He also has served in various roles with community organizations, notably as coordinator of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration in downtown Lexington.

An employee of UK since 1983, Allen's first nine years were in Student Affairs, after which he assumed the newly created central administration position of director of affirmative action. Later, he was named assistant vice president for equal opportunity followed by his current position as associate vice president for institutional equity.