Robin Means Coleman Named Texas A&M Vice President & Associate Provost for Diversity

Robin Means Coleman, Ph.D., a nationally prominent scholar in communication known for her work in diversity, equity and inclusion leadership, as well as for her teaching, has been named vice president and associate provost for diversity at Texas A&M University, effective April 1.

Coleman currently serves as associate dean of social sciences in the Rackham Graduate School at the University of Michigan where she is responsible for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan. In this role, she has facilitated strategic activities towards four major focal areas: effective recruitment practices, fostering a high-quality academic and professional environment, retention and cross- community service, and partnership and collaboration.

A noted and award-winning professor of communication and Afroamerican and African studies, Coleman’s scholarship focuses on media studies, identity formation and the impacts of intercultural communications. She has received the John Dewey Award for undergraduate education, the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Outstanding Mentor Award, and the Harold R. Johnson Diversity Service Award at the University of Michigan, as well as recognition from New York University School of Education for teaching excellence.

“Texas A&M is committed to a culture where everyone feels supported and encouraged to pursue their goals and find success,” said Texas A&M President Michael K. Young. “Dr. Coleman’s dedication to and achievements in diversity, inclusion and equity leadership are superb. I know she will both complement ongoing efforts and contribute her outstanding expertise to our mission.”

Provost and Executive Vice President Carol A. Fierke said, “We are pleased to continue our commitments to diversity among our students, faculty and staff. Dr. Coleman will bring new perspectives and outstanding leadership to these efforts.”

As the vice president and associate provost for diversity, Coleman will lead Texas A&M’s efforts in accountability, climate and equity as outlined in the Texas A&M University Diversity Plan. Reporting to the provost, she will work collaboratively with faculty across Texas A&M’s 16 colleges and schools, two branch campuses, Health Science Center, and University Libraries.

“I could not be more excited to join Texas A&M as its next vice president and associate provost for diversity,” Coleman said. “Texas A&M’s indefatigable commitment to inclusion, equity and diversity is embedded in its very DNA, as evidenced by its Core Values.

“The Texas A&M community has put belonging and inclusion at the very forefront of its mission. Values such as respect, integrity, and loyalty are some of the fundamental principles that Texas A&M has deemed essential for its campuses, and for our society. I am honored to move these standards of excellence forward.”

Coleman earned a bachelor of arts in communications from Chatham College, a master of arts in communication from the University of Missouri, and a Ph.D. in mass communication from Bowling Green State University.

Prior to joining University of Michigan, Coleman held academic positions at the University of Pittsburgh and New York University.