After four years of dedicated service, the head of Memorial University’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) office, Dr. Arig al Shaibah, will be stepping down from her role. This announcement was made by the university’s president, Dr. Vianne Timmons, on Monday.
Dr. al Shaibah joined Memorial University in 2017 as the inaugural executive director of the EDI office. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in promoting and implementing initiatives to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for students, faculty, and staff.
Under her leadership, the EDI office has launched several programs, including the Indigenous Student Success Program, the Black Student Success Program, and the Gender and Sexual Diversity Program. These initiatives have helped to address systemic barriers and promote diversity and inclusion on campus.
In addition, Dr. al Shaibah has played a crucial role in developing the university’s first EDI action plan, which outlines specific goals and strategies to create a more diverse and inclusive community at Memorial. This plan has been widely praised and has served as a model for other institutions.
Dr. Timmons expressed her gratitude for Dr. al Shaibah’s contributions, stating, “Her passion and dedication to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion have had a profound impact on our university community. We are grateful for her leadership and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”
Dr. al Shaibah’s departure comes at a critical time, as universities across Canada are facing increased pressure to address issues of systemic racism and discrimination. However, she remains optimistic about the progress that has been made at Memorial and the potential for continued growth in the future.
In her statement, Dr. al Shaibah said, “I am proud of the work we have accomplished together at Memorial University. While there is still much to be done, I am confident that the university will continue to make strides towards a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.”
The university will begin the search for a new head of the EDI office in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Dr. al Shaibah will continue to serve in her role until a replacement is found. Her departure date has not yet been announced.
As the university bids farewell to Dr. al Shaibah, her legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the EDI landscape at Memorial University and beyond. Her dedication and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion will be greatly missed, but her impact will be felt for years to come.
