Madison Reporter

LaVar J. Charleston has been appointed vice chancellor for inclusive excellence at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, reflecting a broader focus on belonging and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff.

Charleston will lead efforts in inclusive excellence, acknowledging the various ways identity and background can affect success and a sense of belonging within the university community. These factors include race, gender, first-generation status, socioeconomic status, rural and urban backgrounds, disability, national origin, religious and cultural identities, and diversity of viewpoints.

“LaVar is committed to fostering a climate where all members of the campus community can belong and flourish,” said Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin. “His deep understanding of the challenges we face and exceptional leadership skills will help him play an even more expansive role in guiding our efforts to build a more connected and inclusive campus community.”

In addition to his new role, Charleston will continue serving on the chancellor’s executive committee and retain his title as Elzie Higginbottom Director of Division of Diversity, Equity and Educational Achievement (DDEEA).

“Inclusive excellence means valuing diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, and ensuring differing viewpoints are integrated into decision-making to achieve organizational excellence and maximize success,” Charleston stated. “As a two-time alum, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to advance the work of inclusive excellence at UW–Madison, and I look forward to further collaborations with our campus and state.”

Charleston has previously served as UW–Madison’s deputy vice chancellor for diversity and inclusion, vice provost, and chief diversity officer over the past three years. He brings over 20 years of leadership experience in creating equitable working and learning environments in higher education.

He holds a master’s degree and a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from UW–Madison’s School of Education. Before leading DDEEA, he was associate dean for equity, diversity, and inclusion at UW–Madison’s School of Education and assistant vice chancellor for student diversity at UW–Whitewater.